Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy is a classic comfort food that combines flavorful beef patties with a rich, savory onion gravy. It’s a hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal on a cool evening. This recipe is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, making it a versatile and satisfying option.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy, discuss its history, and provide tips for creating a perfectly balanced dish.
The Origins of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury Steak was invented in the late 19th century by Dr. James H. Salisbury, an American physician who advocated for a high-protein diet. He developed this dish as a way to provide a healthy, nutritious meal made primarily of ground beef. Over time, the recipe evolved from its simple beginnings into the dish we know today—juicy beef patties smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. Though often compared to meatloaf or hamburger steak, Salisbury steak stands out because of its gravy and the way the patties are seasoned.
Ingredients for Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy
To make this classic dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Salisbury Steak Patties:
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal for juicy patties)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil or Butter: For frying
For the Onion Gravy:
- Onions: 2 medium, thinly sliced
- Beef Broth: 2 cups
- Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Ingredient Notes
- Ground Beef: A blend with 20% fat works best for Salisbury steak, as it keeps the patties moist and flavorful.
- Breadcrumbs: This helps bind the meat mixture together and adds some texture.
- Onions: Yellow onions are ideal for the gravy because they caramelize well and add sweetness.
How to Make Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steak Patties
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape them into oval patties about 1 inch thick.
- Brown the Patties: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned on the outside. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Onion Gravy
- Cook the Onions: In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until the onions are soft and caramelized.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add the Broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and thyme (if using). Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the Patties to the Skillet: Add the browned patties back to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Let the patties simmer in the gravy for about 10 minutes, or until cooked through and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the Salisbury Steak with the rich onion gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the ground beef mixture, be gentle to avoid making the patties tough.
- Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Take your time cooking the onions over medium heat. The caramelization process adds depth and sweetness to the gravy.
- Use a Good Beef Broth: For a rich, flavorful gravy, use a high-quality beef broth or stock. You can also enhance the gravy with a splash of red wine for added depth.
Variations of Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy
Mushroom Salisbury Steak
Add sliced mushrooms to the onion gravy for an earthy twist. Sauté the mushrooms with the onions or cook them separately and stir them into the gravy at the end.
Low-Carb Salisbury Steak
For a low-carb version, omit the breadcrumbs from the beef mixture and replace the flour in the gravy with a low-carb thickener like almond flour or xanthan gum.
Turkey Salisbury Steak
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. The cooking process remains the same, but you may want to add extra seasonings to compensate for the milder flavor of turkey.
Nutritional Information for Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
This dish is high in protein and fat, making it a satisfying meal. For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef or turkey and reduce the amount of butter in the gravy.
What to Serve with Salisbury Steak
Salisbury Steak pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect vessel for soaking up the savory onion gravy.
- Rice: Serve the steak over steamed rice for a simple, hearty side.
- Egg Noodles: Buttered egg noodles make a great base for this dish, adding a comforting element.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add a nice balance to the rich steak and gravy.
- Garden Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Salisbury steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Salisbury steak patties and onion gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties in the gravy on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I freeze Salisbury steak?
Yes, you can freeze Salisbury steak. After cooking, let the patties and gravy cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil or butter to keep the patties moist.
What’s the difference between Salisbury steak and meatloaf?
Salisbury steak is typically made from individual beef patties cooked with a savory gravy, while meatloaf is a large loaf of seasoned ground meat baked in the oven. Salisbury steak is often pan-fried or seared before being simmered in gravy, whereas meatloaf is served with sauce or gravy on top.
Conclusion
Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy is a timeless comfort food that brings together rich flavors and simple ingredients. With tender beef patties simmered in a savory onion gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
If you tried this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your tips, variations, or any fun additions you made in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—it’s a classic that everyone will enjoy!