Quick & Delicious Midwest Salisbury Steak

I have to admit something: my first try at making Salisbury steak was a total mess, and the sauce was too thin so the timing was off; therefore, I ended up with a slightly sad-looking plate.

You know what? Because that little disaster taught me a ton, and sometimes cooking isn’t about perfection, but instead it’s about the little wins, so honestly, when I finally got my Salisbury steak right, the taste blew me away.

Have you ever had a meal that made you just stop and smile because it was that good? Because I remember making this Salisbury steak late on a weeknight after a long day, and the kitchen was a little chaotic while my dog was begging at my feet.

So I almost gave up halfway through; however, I pushed on and stirred a little too aggressively, then laughed at the splashes on the counter because by the time it was ready, wow, that first bite brought pure happiness.

ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (you can use lean)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

ingredients notes

• Ground beef: Choose lean beef if you want it healthier, but a little fat helps it stay juicy.
• Breadcrumbs: These help hold the steak together so it doesn’t fall apart.
• Milk and egg: Make the beef soft and tender, like a pillow for your taste buds.
• Onion and garlic: Give it a yummy flavor that makes everyone smile.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a little tangy taste that makes the gravy special.
• Beef broth: Makes the gravy rich and tasty.
• Cornstarch and water: Mix together to make the gravy thick and smooth.
• Dijon mustard: Optional, but it gives a tiny kick and extra flavor.

How to make Salisbury Steak?

step 1: mix the steak ingredients

In a big bowl, put the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to mix them together until everything is combined. Don’t squish too hard; just mix gently so it stays soft.

step 2: form the patties

Take some of the mixture and shape it into oval patties, about the size of your palm. You should get 4 to 6 patties depending on how big you make them. Try to keep them the same size so they cook evenly.

step 3: cook the patties

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Once hot, put the patties in the pan. Cook them for 4–5 minutes on each side until they are brown and cooked through. Remove the patties from the pan and set them aside.

step 4: make the gravy

In the same pan, add the beef broth. Scrape the bottom with a spoon to get all the yummy bits from the steak. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth, then pour it into the pan. Stir constantly and cook for 2–3 minutes until the gravy is thick and smooth. Add Dijon mustard if using.

step 5: combine steaks and gravy

Put the cooked patties back into the gravy. Spoon some gravy over the top. Let it simmer on low for 5 minutes so the flavors mix and the steaks are extra juicy.

step 6: serve and enjoy

Spoon the Salisbury steaks onto plates and pour the gravy over them. You can serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables. Don’t forget to smile; your meal is ready.

kitchen equipment needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Spoon or hands for mixing
• Knife and chopping board
• Skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl for cornstarch mix
• Spatula or tongs

storage options!

If you have leftovers, let the Salisbury steak cool down first. Put it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, put it in the microwave or on the stove with a little water to keep the gravy smooth.

variations!

You can change up this recipe in many ways! Try adding chopped mushrooms to the gravy for a richer flavor. Some people like using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. You can even mix in a little cheese in the patties for a gooey surprise. Add herbs like thyme or parsley to make it taste fresh and fancy.

What to enjoy with Salisbury steak?

Have you ever wondered what goes best with Salisbury steak? Because I love it with my cream puffs, and also if you want to add a fall touch to your table, I suggest my pumpkin-shaped cheese ball with chips, because they make the meal feel special and a little fancy while still being easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Sometimes I even add something crunchy like crispy onion rings on the side because it makes the meal exciting and who doesn’t love little surprises on the plate? And honestly, making Salisbury steak with sides you love makes cooking feel like a small adventure and you learn new combos every time so why not try it with your favorite treats too.

Tips for making the best Salisbury steak

• Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it keeps the patties soft.
• Make sure the pan is hot before adding patties so they brown nicely.
• Use a little oil in the pan to prevent sticking.
• Let the gravy simmer with the steaks; it helps them soak up more flavor.
• Taste the gravy before serving; sometimes it needs a pinch more salt or pepper.
• Make patties similar in size so they cook evenly.
• You can make the patties ahead of time and freeze them for quick dinners.

FAQ

what is salisbury steak made of?

It’s mostly ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onions, garlic, and seasonings. Then it’s cooked and topped with a rich brown gravy.

what does salisbury steak taste like?

It’s juicy, savory, and a little tangy from the Worcestershire sauce. The gravy makes it extra smooth and comforting.

can i use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works, but it may be a little less juicy.

can i make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure the gravy ingredients are gluten-free.

how long does it take to cook?

About 20–25 minutes from start to finish.

can i freeze salisbury steak?

Yes, freeze cooked patties in gravy in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

what sides go best with it?

Mashed potatoes, rice, vegetables, or noodles.

can kids eat it?

Definitely! The patties are soft and the gravy is smooth, perfect for little mouths.

how do i make the gravy thicker?

Mix cornstarch and water, then add slowly to the broth while stirring until it reaches the thickness you like.

can i make it ahead of time?

Yes, form patties ahead and freeze them or cook the whole dish and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

is salisbury steak healthy?

It can be, especially if you use lean meat and serve with vegetables.

can i add cheese?

Yes, add a slice of cheese on top of the patties or mix shredded cheese into the meat before cooking.