Introduction to Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
What is Salisbury Steak and Why You’ll Love It?
Salisbury Steak is a comforting classic that transforms ordinary ground beef into something spectacular. This dish, which has roots in American cuisine, is essentially seasoned beef patties served with a rich and savory mushroom gravy. It's the ultimate way to embrace the nostalgic flavors of home-cooked meals, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Imagine tender, juicy beef patties that are not only easy to make but are also steeped in a umami-rich gravy. What’s great about this recipe is that the Salisbury steaks cook directly in the gravy, absorbing all those delicious flavors. The addition of sautéed mushrooms and aromatic onions elevates this meal from simple to extraordinary.
If you're looking for a recipe that’s both satisfying and straightforward, Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy checks all the boxes. It's a dish that garners smiles at the dinner table and makes for excellent leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any left!). Whether paired with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad, this dish is sure to become a regular in your culinary repertoire.
Feeling curious? Explore the history of Salisbury Steak and find out why it has stood the test of time!

Ingredients for Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Creating a mouthwatering Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy starts with the right ingredients. We've broken them down for you, so let's make shopping a breeze!
Essential Ingredients for the Steaks
For the patties, you’ll need:
- ½ onion (white, brown, or yellow): Grated for moisture and flavor.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or ⅓ cup ordinary breadcrumbs): These will help bind the mixture.
- 1 lb/500g ground beef (mince): The star ingredient.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: For that aromatic kick.
- 1 egg: This acts as a binder.
- 2 tablespoon ketchup: Adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crumbled: Enhances the beefy flavor.
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami.
- 3 teaspoon Dijon mustard or 2 teaspoon dry mustard powder: For a touch of zing.
Ingredients for the Mushroom Gravy
The gravy is where the magic happens. Gather the following:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Because you can never have too much garlic!
- ½ onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness to the gravy.
- 5 oz/150g mushrooms, sliced: Earthy notes and richness.
- 30g / 2 tablespoon unsalted butter: For richness and flavor.
- 3 tablespoon flour (all-purpose/plain): To thicken the gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth/stock, low sodium: To make the gravy flavorful yet balanced.
- ½ cup water: To adjust consistency.
- 2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Enhances flavor and ties everything together.
- 2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: More umami!
- Salt and pepper: To taste, of course!
These ingredients come together to create a dish that's both comforting and delicious. Don’t forget to check out this guide for more tips on selecting fresh ingredients!
Preparing Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Making Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy is a time-honored way to elevate ground beef into a dish that feels gourmet without requiring advanced cooking skills. Let’s walk through the steps together, and you'll have a comforting dinner on the table in no time!
Grating the Onion
Start by grating half an onion using a box grater. This technique releases the onion's natural juices and flavors, ensuring they infuse into your patties beautifully. Grate it over a bowl filled with panko breadcrumbs (or ordinary breadcrumbs), which will soak up those juices. Mix the grated onion with the breadcrumbs and allow it to sit for a few minutes. This step not only boosts the flavor but also ensures your patties are moist and tender.
Mixing the Ingredients
Once the breadcrumbs have soaked, it’s time to add the rest of the Salisbury Steak ingredients to the bowl. Combine ground beef, minced garlic, one egg, ketchup, a crumbled beef bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, and dijon mustard. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want a uniform mixture that’s still a bit pasty, which helps your patties hold together during cooking.
Forming the Patties
Divide the mixture into five equal portions, then form them into oval patties, about ¾ inch thick. Firmly pressing the patties will help them maintain their shape when cooking. If they seem too fragile, you can always refrigerate them for a bit to firm up before cooking.
Browning the Patties
In a skillet, heat some olive oil over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the patties in the pan. Sear one side for about a minute until browned, then carefully flip to brown the other side. Don’t worry if they’re slightly raw in the center at this point; they’ll finish cooking in the gravy.
Sautéing the Aromatics
After removing the patties, it’s time to bring the skillet back to life! If there isn’t much oil left, add a little more. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent. The smells will start to fill the kitchen—delicious!
Preparing the Mushroom Gravy
Next, add sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking them until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Lower the heat and introduce unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in flour and stir for about 30 seconds to create a roux. This step will help thicken your gravy when the liquids are added.
Add beef broth gradually, stirring continuously, and then whisk in the remaining gravy ingredients. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Cooking the Steaks in the Gravy
Return the browned patties to the gravy, spooning some sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for about 5-7 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If the gravy thickens too quickly, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Tasting and Adjusting
Once your Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You’re looking for that savory, rich flavor that makes this dish a comfort food classic!
Now you're all set to serve your delicious Salisbury Steak over mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish. Enjoy every bite!

Variations on Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
When it comes to Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy, creativity knows no bounds! Here are a couple of delicious variations to try for your next dinner:
Salisbury Steak Meatballs
Who doesn’t love meatballs? This variation takes the classic Salisbury steak flavors and transforms them into hearty meatballs. Simply mix the meatball ingredients as you would for the patties, roll them into balls, and simmer them in the same luscious mushroom gravy. Serve over spaghetti or as a sub sandwich for a delightful twist.
Mushroom & Spinach Salisbury Steak
If you’re looking to boost the nutritional profile, try adding spinach to your Salisbury steaks. Finely chop fresh spinach and mix it in with the meat mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a vibrant color and extra vitamins. The mushrooms in the gravy pair beautifully with the spinach, creating a comforting dish that’s both tasty and nutritious.
Explore more variations and let your culinary creativity shine!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Salisbury Steak
Ensuring Tender Patties
To create deliciously tender patties for your Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy, don’t skip the onion grating step. Grating the onion and mixing it with breadcrumbs allows them to soak up the moisture and flavors, making your patties juicier. Remember, a gentle touch is key—mix just enough until the ingredients are combined but avoid overworking the meat.
How to Thicken the Gravy
For a rich and creamy gravy, the flour must be cooked properly. After adding the flour to the butter, let it cook for about 30 seconds before you add the broth. This helps develop a more intense flavor. If your gravy ends up too thick, simply whisk in a little extra water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
For a little extra guidance, feel free to check out this article on gravy techniques for more ideas!

Serving suggestions for Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Best Side Dishes to Pair
To elevate your Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy, consider pairing it with comforting sides:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice! The velvety texture pairs beautifully with the savory gravy.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their crispness brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra gravy, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor balances the sweetness of the onions in the gravy.
Creative Serving Ideas
Get a bit creative with how you present your Salisbury Steak. Consider serving it over:
- Polenta: For a hearty twist, creamy polenta offers a delightful change in texture.
- Cauliflower Rice: If you’re aiming for a lighter option, this will complement the flavors wonderfully without weighing you down.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory gravy and gives a nutritious boost.
These simple ideas can make your meal feel extra special and cater to a variety of taste preferences! Want to explore more? Check out additional side dish inspirations at Food Network.
Time Breakdown for Salisbury Steak
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this delicious Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy is about 15 minutes. This includes grating the onion and mixing all the ingredients to create your patties. It’s a quick task that sets the stage for a flavorful meal!
Cooking Time
Once your patties are ready, the cooking time is approximately 15 minutes. You’ll brown the steaks and whip up the savory mushroom gravy simultaneously, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at just 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence, but you still want to impress. Pair it with some mashed potatoes, and you've got yourself a restaurant-quality dish at home! Want more quick and satisfying recipes? Check out these easy dinner ideas.
Nutritional Facts for Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Calories
Each serving of Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy contains approximately 286 calories. This makes it a satisfying option for dinner without overwhelming your daily calorie intake.
Protein
Packed with 25 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic way to boost your protein intake. Not only does it support muscle health, but it's also great for keeping you full and satisfied.
Sodium
Watch your sodium intake with Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy, which has about 651 milligrams of sodium per serving. Pair it with fresh veggies or a light side salad to balance your meal.
Curious about more nutritious options? Check out the USDA’s FoodData Central for detailed information on the nutritional value of various ingredients. Eating well can be delicious and simple—enjoy your cooking journey!
FAQs about Salisbury Steak
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While the classic Salisbury steak is made with ground beef, you can substitute it with other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor and texture. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Making your Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy gluten-free is simple! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure that the flour used in the gravy is also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work beautifully in the recipe. Always check labels to make sure!
What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
No worries if your gravy turns out thicker than expected! To adjust the consistency, simply stir in additional beef broth or water a little at a time until you reach your desired thickness. This will bring back that rich, saucy goodness perfect for spooning over your steaks!
Feel free to explore more tips and tricks for enhancing your cooking at sites like Serious Eats or the Food Network. Happy cooking!
Conclusion on Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Savor the delightful combination of flavors in Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy. This dish effortlessly transforms ground beef into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food experience. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!

Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Equipment
- skillet
- box grater
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Salisbury Steak
- ½ onion white, brown or yellow
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or ⅓ cup ordinary breadcrumbs
- 1 lb ground beef mince
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 cube beef bouillon crumbled
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3 teaspoon dijon mustard OR 2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Gravy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 5 oz mushrooms sliced
- 30 g unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoon flour all purpose / plain
- 2 cups beef broth low sodium
- ½ cup water
- 2 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
Salisbury Steaks
- Place breadcrumbs in a bowl. Use a box grater and grate the onion over the breadcrumbs. Mix with fingers, leave to soak for a few minutes.
- Add remaining Salisbury Steak ingredients into the large bowl. Use your hands to mix until just combined. Mix well for a couple of minutes until the mixture becomes a bit 'pasty' which will ensure your patties hold together well.
- Divide mixture into 5 and pat very firmly into oval patties around ¾" / 1 ⅔ cm thick.
Cooking and Gravy
- Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the steaks and cook the first side for 1 minute or until browned, then gently flip and brown the other side (they will still be raw inside). Remove onto plate.
- If skillet is looking dry, add a touch more oil. Add chopped onion and garlic and cook for 2 minute until onions are a bit translucent.
- Add the mushrooms into the skillet and cook for 2 - 3 minutes until golden.
- Turn heat down to medium. Add butter. Once melted, add flour and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add in beef broth, stirring as you go. Once mostly lump free, whisk in remaining Gravy ingredients.
- Add steaks along with the juices on the plate. Cook for 5 - 7 minutes, or until gravy is thickened, stirring occasionally around the steaks. If the gravy thickens too quickly, add more water.
- Remove steaks onto a plate. Taste gravy and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve salisbury steaks topped with the mushroom gravy - over mashed potato is ideal! Sprinkle with a bit of parsley if desired.




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