If you’ve ever craved a warm, comforting meal that hits all the right notes, the Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture juicy ground beef patties infused with savory spices, gently seared to perfection, then smothered in a rich, velvety brown gravy with caramelized onions that add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. This dish brings a nostalgic American classic right to your table, making weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are humble but come together to create amazing, layered flavors and textures. Each item plays an essential role in transforming everyday pantry staples into a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20): The perfect balance of lean and fat keeps the patties moist and flavorful.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and create tender patties without being heavy.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything together.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a hint of tang and sweetness to the beef.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami throughout the steak and gravy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the caramelized onions and infuses more subtle onion flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a smoky undertone that elevates the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy kick to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used to soften and caramelize the onions for the gravy.
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced: Turns sweet and tender, forming the soul of the brown gravy.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy for that luscious, glossy finish.
- 2 cups beef broth: The robust base that creates the savory gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds extra complexity and richness to the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tang to brighten the sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Combine and Shape the Patties
Start by mixing your ground beef with the breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. It’s important to handle the mix gently—overworking can make the patties tough. Once combined, shape the meat mixture into 4 oval patties that will cook evenly and hold together as they simmer.
Step 2: Sear the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each patty for 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and creates a beautiful brown crust that brings flavor and texture. Once browned, remove them from the skillet but don’t clean out the pan—those browned bits are where your gravy magic begins.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
Reduce the heat to medium, add the butter, and toss in the sliced onions. Stir occasionally as they cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until they become soft and golden brown. This slow caramelization releases the onions’ natural sweetness, which beautifully balances the rich meat and savory gravy.
Step 4: Make the Brown Gravy
Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and begins thickening the sauce. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes so it becomes thick, smooth, and bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Simmer the Patties in Gravy
Return the patties to the skillet with the gravy, cover it, and let the dish gently simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. This final simmer locks in flavor while making sure the patties are cooked through and tender. You’ll see how the beef and gravy meld into a comforting, soul-satisfying dish.
How to Serve Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a simple yet effective finish. It adds a fresh herbal note and a burst of color that makes each serving inviting and visually vibrant. Sprinkle it just before serving for the best effect.
Side Dishes
The Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe shines alongside classic mashed potatoes, which are perfect for soaking up every drop of that luscious gravy. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or buttery dinner rolls complete the plate for a well-rounded, hearty meal that feels like home.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in a rustic cast iron skillet at the table, letting guests help themselves. Another idea is plating the patties over creamy polenta or buttery egg noodles to switch things up with texture and flavor. No matter how you present it, the warmth and hominess of this dish speaks volumes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Salisbury steak and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as satisfying if not better.
Freezing
This dish freezes really well. Place fully cooled patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep or busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to warm the dish evenly.
FAQs
What cut of ground beef works best for Salisbury steak?
Ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal because it provides enough fat for juicy, flavorful patties without being too greasy.
Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free breadcrumbs work just as well and keep the patties together while accommodating dietary needs.
How do I know when the Salisbury steaks are fully cooked?
After simmering, the patties should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. The meat will be firm but still juicy to the touch, and the gravy will be thick and hearty.
Is it possible to make this dish in an oven instead of a stovetop?
Yes! After searing, you can place the patties in a baking dish, pour the gravy over, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
Can I add mushrooms to the brown gravy?
Mushrooms are a fantastic addition! Simply sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions before adding the flour for a richer, earthier gravy.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how easy and rewarding it is to make the Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe, it’s time to gather those simple ingredients and create a meal full of flavor, comfort, and nostalgia. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special treat, this dish brings warmth and happiness to any table. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s a beloved classic!
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Ultimate Salisbury Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Salisbury Steak recipe features juicy ground beef patties seared to perfection and simmered in a rich, savory brown gravy with caramelized onions. A comforting American classic, ideal for satisfying weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Steak Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to combine without overworking the meat. Shape the mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Sear the patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice brown crust. Once browned, remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the onions: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn golden brown, about 10 to 12 minutes. This step builds a deep flavor base for the gravy.
- Make the brown gravy: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the caramelized onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for 3 to 5 minutes until the gravy has a rich, smooth consistency.
- Simmer the patties in gravy: Return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the patties to cook through thoroughly and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve the Salisbury steaks hot with your choice of sides for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the ground beef to keep the patties tender.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Make sure to caramelize the onions slowly to develop their sweetness fully.
- The covered simmer ensures the patties stay moist and juicy.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a classic pairing.
