Salisbury Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Mushroom & Onion Gravy Recipe

This Salisbury Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Mushroom & Onion Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that delivers rich, savory flavors with every bite. The tender Salisbury steaks are seared and simmered in a homemade mushroom and onion gravy, and served alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.

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A Brief History of Salisbury Steak

Salisbury steak is an American dish with origins in the late 19th century, named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, who advocated for a meat-based diet. It’s made from seasoned ground beef formed into steak-like patties, and often served with gravy. This dish became a staple in American homes and diners, particularly as a budget-friendly way to serve a hearty, flavorful meal.

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Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Ground Beef

Ground beef is the base of the Salisbury steak. It’s mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings, then shaped into patties and cooked until juicy and tender.

• Pro Tip: Use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.

Mushrooms and Onions

Mushrooms and onions are the key ingredients for the savory gravy. They add depth of flavor, and their caramelization enhances the rich, umami taste of the dish.

• Substitution Tip: You can use baby bella mushrooms for a more intense flavor or replace them with cremini or white button mushrooms.

Beef Broth

Beef broth forms the base of the mushroom and onion gravy, adding a deep, meaty flavor that ties the dish together.

• Pro Tip: For an even richer gravy, you can substitute part of the broth with red wine or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

Potatoes

Yukon gold potatoes or russet potatoes are perfect for mashed potatoes, as they have the right balance of creaminess and fluffiness. Adding garlic to the mashed potatoes elevates their flavor to perfectly complement the savory Salisbury steak.

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How to Make Salisbury Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Mushroom & Onion Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Peel and cut 2 lbs of potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup milk, 4 tablespoons butter, and 3 cloves minced garlic until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Pro Tip: For extra creamy potatoes, use a potato masher or hand mixer and avoid over-mixing to prevent the potatoes from becoming gummy.

Step 2: Make the Salisbury Steak Patties

In a large bowl, combine:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well and shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.

• Tip: Use your thumb to make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Salisbury Steaks

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.

• Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even browning. Cook the patties in batches if necessary.

Step 4: Make the Mushroom & Onion Gravy

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and 8 oz of mushrooms, sliced until they are soft and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Gradually add 2 cups of beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the gravy for 5-7 minutes until it thickens. Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Pro Tip: For an even richer gravy, stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or heavy cream for added creaminess.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked Salisbury steaks to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Let them simmer in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serve the Salisbury steaks with a generous helping of the garlic mashed potatoes and spoon the mushroom and onion gravy over everything.

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Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple side salad to add a fresh, crunchy element to the meal. For a heartier dinner, serve with buttery dinner rolls or cornbread.

You can also garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color and added flavor.

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Variations and Add-Ins

Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

For an extra indulgent version of the mashed potatoes, stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Red Wine Gravy

Substitute 1/2 cup of beef broth with red wine for a more sophisticated, richer gravy. The red wine adds depth and pairs beautifully with the beef and mushrooms.

Vegetarian Salisbury Steak

For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils. You can also use portobello mushrooms as a base for the patties and follow the same cooking process.

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Dietary Adaptations

This Salisbury Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the steak mixture and a gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the gravy.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes with dairy-free alternatives, such as olive oil and almond milk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Salisbury Steak with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Mushroom & Onion Gravy Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Salisbury steak patties and gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the mashed potatoes and steak with gravy in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I freeze Salisbury steaks?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Salisbury steaks for up to 3 months. Wrap the patties individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

What other types of meat can I use?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground pork for a lighter version of the dish.

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