Salisbury Steak and Gravy: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish

Name: Salisbury Steak and Gravy: A Heartwarming Comfort Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/4 cup bread crumbs; 1 egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon soy sauce

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 23, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Ah, Salisbury steak and gravy! Just saying it brings back the warmest memories of cozy dinners at home. This dish is the ultimate comfort food for me, and I can’t help but smile when I think of the first time I had it. My mom would whip it up on chilly evenings, filling our kitchen with those irresistible savory scents that wrapped around you like a big hug. The rich, flavorful gravy pooled over perfectly browned patties made every bite a celebration of home-cooked goodness. It’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition that brings my family together, reminding us of all those laughter-filled nights around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why Salisbury steak and gravy is a timeless favorite that warms the heart and soul!

salisbury steak and gravy - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon soy sauce

How to Prepare Salisbury Steak and Gravy

Preparing Salisbury steak and gravy is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process so you can create this comforting dish with confidence!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it gently; you don’t want to overwork the meat, which can make the patties tough. Once everything’s combined, shape the mixture into four evenly sized patties, about an inch thick. Trust me, the shape matters for even cooking!

Now, let’s heat things up! Place a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once it shimmers, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook them for about 5 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. You’ll know they’re ready when they release easily from the pan and have a lovely golden crust. Once cooked, remove the patties and set them aside on a plate. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked through yet; they’ll finish cooking in the gravy.

Next up, it’s time to make that rich gravy! In the same skillet (there’s all that delicious flavor stuck to the bottom, don’t waste it!), pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until it’s smooth, and then stir it into the simmering broth. Keep stirring until it thickens up nicely—this usually takes just a couple of minutes.

Add the soy sauce to the gravy, giving it a deeper flavor that’ll make your taste buds sing! Now, return the patties to the skillet, nestling them in that luscious gravy. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. This step allows the patties to absorb all the savory goodness and finish cooking through.

And there you have it! Serve those hearty Salisbury steaks warm, generously topped with that rich gravy. Pair them with mashed potatoes or rice for a truly comforting meal. You’re going to love every bite!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I love sharing my Salisbury steak and gravy recipe with you, it’s important to remember that the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. My estimates are just that—estimates! Depending on factors like the type of ground beef or the brand of beef broth, your numbers may differ.

Typically, one serving of this hearty dish (that’s one patty topped with gravy) contains around 350 calories, with about 20 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein. You’ll also find roughly 12 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of sugar in each serving. Just keep in mind that these figures are a guideline, so feel free to adjust them according to your dietary needs or preferences!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip up this Salisbury steak and gravy in just about 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Comfort Food Classic: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The rich, savory gravy paired with the juicy beef patties creates a meal that’s both hearty and delicious.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or veggies to the gravy—it’s versatile!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a surefire hit for family dinners.

Tips for Success

Getting your Salisbury steak and gravy just right can be a breeze if you keep a few handy tips in mind. First, don’t overmix your beef mixture—this keeps your patties tender and juicy. Just combine the ingredients until they’re mixed; a gentle touch goes a long way!

When cooking the patties, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the meat. This helps achieve that beautiful brown crust, which is key for flavor. If you find the gravy too thick, simply whisk in a little more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

And if you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider sautéing some mushrooms or garlic in the skillet after browning the patties before adding the broth. These little tweaks can transform your dish into something truly special. Happy cooking!

Variations on Salisbury Steak and Gravy

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delicious ways to put your own spin on Salisbury steak and gravy! One of my favorite variations is to add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the meat mixture. Just a tablespoon or two can really brighten up the flavor and make it feel fresh!

Another great option is to mix in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. These veggies not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall taste and texture. Just toss them in the pan after you brown the patties, letting them soak up all the savory goodness from the skillet.

If you want a bit of a kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy. It’ll elevate the dish and give it an exciting twist! And don’t forget about cheese—topping your patties with some melted cheddar or Swiss right before serving can take this comfort food to the next level. Get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Salisbury steak and gravy, the possibilities are endless! I absolutely love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes. The velvety potatoes soak up that rich gravy beautifully, creating a comforting bite that feels like a warm hug. If you’re in the mood for something different, a fluffy rice pilaf makes a delightful base too, adding a bit of texture to your meal.

Vegetables are a must to round out the plate! Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts add a lovely crunch and brighten up the dish with their vibrant colors. You could even sauté some garlic spinach for a pop of flavor. And don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread on the side—perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy! Trust me, these pairings will elevate your Salisbury steak experience to a whole new level!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your delicious Salisbury steak and gravy is super easy! Once the dish has cooled down, transfer the patties and gravy into an airtight container. Make sure to store them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the patties and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. For the best results, I recommend warming them up on the stovetop. Just place the patties and gravy in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you find the gravy has thickened too much, just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also microwave them if you’re short on time, but be sure to cover the container to keep the moisture in. Enjoy your comforting meal again!

FAQ Section

Q1. What is the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?
Salisbury steak is typically made from ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings, shaped into patties, and served with a rich gravy. Hamburger steak, on the other hand, is often just a seasoned beef patty without the added ingredients or gravy. Salisbury steak has a more complex flavor profile due to the combination of seasonings, while hamburger steak is simpler and usually served plain.

Q2. Can I make Salisbury steak and gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and even the gravy ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeknights!

Q3. What can I serve with Salisbury steak and gravy?
Salisbury steak and gravy pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli also complement the dish well, adding a nice crunch and color to your plate. Don’t forget a slice of warm bread for soaking up that delicious gravy!

Q4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef in your Salisbury steak and gravy! Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different, so you might want to adjust the seasonings accordingly to ensure it’s still delicious.

Q5. How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you find your gravy is a bit too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency. Alternatively, simmering the gravy longer can also help reduce it, making it thicker naturally.