This Old-Fashioned Salisbury Steak is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s made with juicy ground beef and topped with a rich onion gravy that you’ll want to pour over everything!
Every bite reminds me of cozy family dinners. I love serving it with mashed potatoes—it’s the perfect pairing. Just watch out, it might disappear faster than you think! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80% lean ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, 90% lean works too, but it might be a bit drier.
Bread Crumbs: Plain breadcrumbs help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, swap them out with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness. If you’re watching calories, you can use skim milk or even a dairy-free option like almond milk. Just be mindful of how it might change the flavor a bit.
Onions: For the patties, a small onion adds flavor. You can use shallots if you prefer a milder taste. The gravy uses large onions, and I love using sweet onions for a nice caramel flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: This is key for that umami boost! If you’re out, soy sauce works as well, or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar can do the trick.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions brings out their sweetness and makes them a star in the dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by slicing your onions thinly so they cook evenly.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning. Patience is key here!
- Add a pinch of salt to help release moisture and speed up the process.
- Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking for about 10-12 minutes until they’re golden and sweet.
It’s a step worth taking—caramelized onions elevate the taste of your gravy!
Old-Fashioned Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
For the Rich Onion Gravy:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon tomato paste (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes mixing the patties, 10-15 minutes cooking them, and another 10 minutes making that delightful onion gravy. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix; this helps keep the patties tender. Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 oval patties, about 1 inch thick.
2. Brown the Patties:
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they become soft, translucent, and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and stir well to coat them. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If you’re using soy sauce and tomato paste for added flavor, add them now. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken into a gravy, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Return the Salisbury steak patties to the skillet, spooning some gravy over them. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for 10 more minutes to meld the flavors and ensure the patties are cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Salisbury steak hot with sides like mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, spooning extra onion gravy over the top. It’s a classic dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your comforting, rich Old-Fashioned Salisbury Steak with onion gravy!
FAQ for Old-Fashioned Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative! Just be aware that the flavor may be milder. To enhance it, consider adding extra seasonings or even a splash of broth to keep the patties juicy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute plain breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure the beef broth is also gluten-free to accommodate the diet.
How to Prevent the Patties from Falling Apart?
To keep your Salisbury steak patties intact, be sure to mix the ingredients gently without overworking them. Shaping them into a firmer consistency can also help. If they still feel loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs for extra binding!
