Experience a nostalgic, homestyle classic with this Hearty Skillet Salisbury Steak recipe—a satisfying dish featuring seasoned beef patties simmered in a luscious mushroom and onion gravy. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal to warm up a chilly evening or want a make-ahead dinner for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder checks all the boxes for flavor, simplicity, and comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Salisbury steak recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Flavor-packed patties: Made with classic seasonings and bound with breadcrumbs and egg, each bite delivers a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the velvety gravy.
- Comfort food done right: A meal reminiscent of Sunday dinners and hearty home cooking, it brings warmth to the table.
- Easy one-skillet meal: Minimal cleanup and straightforward preparation make this dish ideal for any night of the week.
- Versatile and family-friendly: Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—whatever suits your taste.
- Meal prep favorite: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy comforting leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Salisbury Steak Patties:
- Ground beef (preferably 80/20 for best flavor and moisture)
- Plain breadcrumbs
- Large egg
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Ketchup
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- Unsalted butter
- Yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- Fresh mushrooms (white or cremini, sliced)
- All-purpose flour
- Beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Steak Patties
Start by placing the ground beef in a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a fork to gently mix the ingredients until just combined—overmixing can make the patties tough.
Divide the mixture into four to six oval-shaped portions. Shape each one into a patty about half an inch thick. These patties should resemble miniature steaks in appearance.
2. Sear the Patties
Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking, then place the patties in the skillet. Cook each side for 3–4 minutes until they develop a deep brown crust. The patties do not need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the gravy later. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean—the browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the mushrooms are golden and tender.
4. Make the Gravy Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything. This step helps thicken the gravy. Let the flour cook for about 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth consistency. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken slightly.
5. Return Patties to the Skillet
Carefully place the browned patties back into the skillet, nestling them into the rich gravy. Spoon some gravy over the top of each patty to keep them moist.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 10–15 minutes. This final step ensures the patties cook through and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Salisbury steak hot, generously topped with the mushroom-onion gravy. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy white rice. For added color and nutrition, consider serving it alongside steamed green beans, peas, or roasted carrots.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and presentation.
Recipe Variations
Turkey Salisbury Steak
Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter alternative. Be sure to add a bit more seasoning since turkey is milder in flavor.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the patties and replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the gravy.
Cheesy Upgrade
For extra indulgence, mix a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture before forming the patties.
Vegetarian Twist
Replace the meat with store-bought plant-based patties or large portobello mushrooms. Cook the vegetables the same way and simmer in the mushroom-onion gravy.
Add Veggies to the Gravy
Want more texture and nutrition? Add diced bell peppers, chopped carrots, or even peas to the gravy for a veggie-packed version.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Salisbury steak and gravy in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish cools completely before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, allow the patties and gravy to cool fully. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to the gravy if it has thickened too much in the fridge. You can also microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Skillet Salisbury Steak
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4 oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil. Sear the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and mushrooms, and sauté until softened and golden, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stir to coat, and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the gravy begins to thicken.
- Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, until the patties are fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, spooning plenty of mushroom-onion gravy on top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of ground beef should I use?
Ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio offers the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner meat works too but may result in slightly drier patties.
Can I use pre-made gravy instead of homemade?
While homemade gravy offers the richest flavor, store-bought beef gravy is a convenient shortcut. If using it, consider enhancing it with sautéed onions, mushrooms, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Why do my patties fall apart during cooking?
Ensure the mixture is well-combined and shaped firmly. Also, avoid flipping the patties too soon—they need time to form a crust before being turned.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! Salisbury steak freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze half for another time. It’s a great option for meal prepping.
What sides go best with Salisbury steak?
Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Add a green vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded plate.
Can I skip the mushrooms?
Absolutely. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, simply omit them and use more onions or substitute with another vegetable such as diced bell peppers or zucchini.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
If your gravy is too thin, continue simmering it uncovered until it reduces. Alternatively, whisk a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the simmering gravy.
Can I make this spicy?
Yes! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy for a little kick.
How is Salisbury steak different from hamburger steak?
Salisbury steak includes binders like breadcrumbs and egg, along with additional seasonings, giving it a more refined texture and taste compared to the simpler hamburger steak.
Can I prepare the dish in advance?
You can prepare both the patties and gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then reheat together just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Skillet Salisbury Steak is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience reminiscent of home-cooked dinners from the past. The savory beef patties and rich mushroom-onion gravy come together in a single skillet for an easy, soul-satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for your family on a weeknight or serving guests on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Simple, nostalgic, and undeniably delicious—Salisbury steak is back in style, and it’s here to stay.
