Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners. With seasoned beef patties seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy, this dish brings together simple ingredients to create a meal full of flavor and satisfaction. It’s a classic American comfort food that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
To start, mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, an egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into oval patties, about 1 inch thick. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the patties until they are browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once the patties are browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté sliced onions until they become soft and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth and sweetness to the gravy. Sprinkle the onions with flour, and cook for another minute to form a roux. Then, slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to thicken slightly.
Return the beef patties to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the patties to absorb the flavors of the gravy and become tender.
Once done, serve the Salisbury steaks with a generous spoonful of the savory onion gravy. This dish is perfect with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.
Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy is a meal that’s full of comfort and flavor, bringing together tender beef, savory gravy, and caramelized onions. It’s a classic dinner choice that’s perfect for a cozy evening or when you’re craving a satisfying meal.
Salisbury steak is typically made from ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasonings, shaped into oval patties and simmered in a rich brown gravy.
Not exactly. While both are made from ground beef, Salisbury steak usually includes more fillers like breadcrumbs and is served with gravy, whereas hamburger steak is simpler and often grilled or pan-fried without sauce.
Salisbury steak was named after Dr. James Salisbury, a 19th-century American physician who promoted a meat-based diet. The dish became popular in the U.S. as a hearty and economical meal.
Common sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, steamed vegetables, or buttered noodles. The gravy often complements starchy sides well.
Absolutely. Fully cooked Salisbury steak with gravy freezes well in airtight containers for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80% lean, 20% fat
- 1 large onion sliced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs plain
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 cups beef broth low sodium
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined, then shape into 4 oval patties.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add beef patties and cook until well browned on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove patties from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir to coat. Gradually whisk in beef broth, bringing to a simmer to thicken the gravy.
- Return the beef patties to the skillet, spooning gravy over top. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes to ensure patties are cooked through.
- Serve the Salisbury steak warm with onion gravy poured over top. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Savory goodness! 😋
Easy and tasty! I’m no chef but I managed this. Went great with mashed potatoes!
Glad to hear you enjoyed it! Salisbury steak is sooo good with mashed potatoes! 🥔🍽️
Too much work for a simple meal! Why all the steps? Just frying beef is easier.
Gonna try this but why do you need breadcrumbs? Isn’t it meat and gravy?
Breadcrumbs help bind the meat and keep it moist. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Sounds kinda weird to me. Just meat and gravy should be enough, right? But I’ll give it a shot.
This sounds like a fancy meal but it’s just regular meatloaf on a plate. Not impressed.
Yum! I doubled the onions and it was so good. Will make again!
I don’t get it. My mom’s Salisbury steak recipe is way better. This one was too salty.
This was DELICIOUS! The gravy was on point! My kids loved it too.
What if I skip the Worcestershire sauce? Can I use ketchup instead? Asking for a friend.
I don’t get why everyone loves it so much. The gravy was kinda bland.
This recipe is fantastic! The gravy is so flavorful and easy to make.
Mmmm, comfort food at its best! I added some mushrooms and it was epic.
Never tried Salisbury Steak before… it was okay, but I prefer tacos tbh. 🌮
Honestly, it was kinda bland. I think it needs more seasoning, perhaps some Italian herbs would spice things up a bit.
I totally agree! A little Italian seasoning would really elevate the flavors. I add oregano and thyme to mine and it makes a huge difference!
Bland? Nah, I thought it was fine. Just maybe add hot sauce or somethin if you want heat? Not sure about the Italian herbs tho.
Salisbury steak is a classic! My mom used to make it all the time when I was a kid. Tastes just like home!
Followed the directions exactly but my patties fell apart. Maybe less breadcrumbs next time?
I had the same issue! I think the breadcrumbs are a bit much. I used only a quarter cup and they held together better.
Nah, it ain’t the breadcrumbs. Maybe your beef was too lean or somethin’. Mine came out fine, don’t give up!
Can I make this without the Worcestershire sauce? I don’t have any. Just wondering! 🤔
Sure, you can. Just add a bit more seasoning. It’ll be fine!
I dunno, Worcestershire sauce is pretty important for flavor! You might miss it.
This was absolutely delicious! The gravy was rich and full of flavor. Will definitely make again!
This looks kinda easy, but how does it taste? Anyone tried it with turkey?
Loved this recipe! The gravy was to die for!
Easy to follow instructions! I find cooking relaxing. Making this for dinner next week. Can’t wait!
Easy peasy, will make again! Flex on them chefs!
Haha! Love the enthusiasm! Can’t wait to show off my cooking skills too. 😄
Eat it with rice! That’s how we do! 😋
OMG! Made it for my husband and he said it was better than restaurant food!
I tried it with ground turkey instead of beef and it turned out good too. Gotta get creative sometimes! 😜
Tasted good, but I didn’t have beef broth. Used water instead…
Why do we need fancy gravy? Just fry the patties and eat!
Not bad, but I think it needed more seasoning. A little bland for my taste.
Simple and tasty! Easy to make after work. Will cook again!
My mom used to make this and I forgot how good it was! Thanks for the nostalgia!
Why do people even eat this? Its just hamburger with some onions.
I didn’t have beef broth, used chicken instead. It was okay but not the same. Kinda bland.
I forgot to add the garlic powder, and it turned out fine anyway. Just saying!
Too much onion for my taste. I think I’ll leave them out next time.
Wow. Delicious!!
I used chicken instead of beef and it turned out fine. So flexible!
This is a classic! Just like my grandma used to make. Delicious!
This was a flop for me. Patties fell apart in the skillet. What a mess!
Yummy!!! My kids ate it all up. Will make again for sure! 👍
Not gonna lie, I thought it was gonna be boring because it’s simple. But the onions + gravy actually taste rich. Only thing: use more pepper lol.
It was okay, but my son didn’t like the onions. 😕
Not bad, but mine turned out a little dry. I think my patties were thicker than the recipe’s 4 ovals. Still tasty with the gravy though.
Looks good, but who eats this stuff? Not my thing… 🤷♂️
Salisbury steak? Never heard of it. Is it like meatloaf? 🤔
Tried this but it didn’t turn out as expected. My patties fell apart. Could it be the breadcrumbs?
I had the same issue! You gotta make sure to pack the patties tight and maybe use more breadcrumbs. They help hold it together. Don’t give up! 😘
This recipe is too complicated. Just throw some burger on the grill.
I used 90% lean beef and the patties were kinda tough. With the 80% lean it probably works better—lesson learned.
I always go too lean and then wonder why it’s like biting a shoe. 😅 Next time I’ll stick with 80% and maybe even add a tiny bit more broth/gravy while it simmers.
Good call on adjusting the fat content—90% lean can definitely make patties tough. 80/20 has way more juiciness, and the extra 10 minutes in the gravy helps too.
Too much onion! I could barely taste the meat. Might try less onions next time.
Yum!!! So good! I added some mushrooms, and it was delish!
Mushrooms? Really? I don’t think they belong in Salisbury Steak. Stick to the original, man.
Sounds awesome! I love when people add their twist to recipes! Mushrooms are a great idea.
Too many onions! I like them but there was just sooo much. Maybe next time I’ll cut it down a bit.
Pretty average honestly. I expected more flavor from the beef.
I found the flavors pretty good actually! Maybe try adding some herbs next time? It can really amp it up!
Very easy to make, and my kids loved it! Will definitely make again.
That’s awesome to hear! It’s always great when a recipe works out for kids. What’s their favorite part?
This recipe is absolutely delicious! The gravy was rich and flavorful. My family loved it, and I will definitely be making it again!
This recipe was a hit! My family loved it. The gravy is so rich and delicious!
WAY too much butter. I like butter but not that much. 🤮
This was delicious! Tasted just like my grandma used to make. Thanks!
Yum! My kids loved it! 😋 Easy to make too. Thank you for this recipe!
So glad to hear your kids enjoyed it! It’s a big hit at my house too. 😊
Just like the TV dinners! Brings back memories. Yum!
Yummm! So good! Best I’ve made in a while! Gonna make it again soon.
I’m so glad you loved it! It’s honestly one of my favorites too. Can’t wait to hear how it turns out next time you make it!
Used chicken instead of beef and it still tasted pretty good! Probably not the same dish though.
I don’t usually cook, but this was simple. I felt like a chef! 😂
That sounds awesome! Cooking can be fun! I can’t believe you made steak – like a pro chef! 😂
Yikes! I burnt the patties. Do yourself a favor, keep an eye on them!
Haha, I’ve definitely been there! They can go from perfect to charcoal so quick. I’ll take your advice and watch ’em closely next time!
Really? I thought they were supposed to be easy! Guess I’ll set a timer… but what if I forget? Lol.
Btw, can I use powdered onion instead? Don’t have fresh ones and don’t want to go out in this rain!
Pretty good but I added some mushrooms into the gravy, and it made it even better! Experimenting is key.
Mushrooms in gravy? That’s a cool twist! I’ll have to try that next time, sounds delicious!
So good! The onions really make the dish pop! Highly recommend!
Made this tonight and it was *so* comforting. The onion gravy came out silky and flavorful—didn’t even need extra seasoning. 10/10 with mashed potatoes.
This recipe is fantastic! I’ve always loved Salisbury Steak and this one did not disappoint. The gravy was so rich and flavorful. Will make again! ❤️
Honestly, it looks good but I wonder if it really tastes that great. My mom’s recipe is the best!
I totally agree! This recipe is a game changer! That gravy is just to die for! 😍
I forgot the Worcestershire sauce and it still turned out fine.
I found it too salty. Maybe it’s just me, but I think it needs less Worcestershire sauce.
Too much onion for my taste but hubby loved it. He ate it all!
Glad your hubby loved it! Maybe try less onion next time? 👍
I think onions make everything better! But I get it if it’s too much. 😅
This is basically diner food at home. My husband asked where I bought it lol. I served it with mashed potatoes and it was perfect.
A bit too much gravy for my taste. I’m more of a light sauce person. Will try again tho!
I think 4 patties might be too big? Mine cooked unevenly—some were done faster than others. I’d cut them smaller or flatten more.
Totally agree on the sizing—4 patties from 1 lb can be pretty thick. I’ve had better luck flattening them more so they cook through evenly.
Happens to me sometimes too. I usually make them a bit smaller and press them thinner in the pan. Also make sure your skillet isn’t too hot or the outside browns before the middle.
Really easy but I burned the first batch. Cooking meat ain’t my thing but this ain’t real steak, right? Still edible!
Salisbury steak? Isn’t that like a fancy name for meat patties?
I dunno, calling it ‘Salisbury’ makes it sound like food for kings or somethin’. 😅
Pretty much! It’s just a fancier way to call it. But trust me, it’s delicious!
I followed it exactly and mine came out kinda bland 😕. Like no wow factor. Maybe my garlic powder was old? The texture was okay.
It’s okay but I’m skeptical. Salisbury steak should be more like meatloaf vibes. This is more like burgers with gravy, which is fine.
OMG this is just like my mom used to make. Brings back memories! I added some mushrooms too. Yum!
This turned out so comforting and hearty. The onion gravy is seriously the star—tastes like diner food but better. I used freshly ground pepper and it made a big difference.
I had no beef broth, so I used chicken instead. They still came out okay.
I followed the recipe, but the gravy was too thick. What went wrong?
Salisbury steak? Who even eats that? Sounds old-fashioned. But hey, it’s worth a shot I guess.
My family said “mmm” like 10 times. I served it with mashed potatoes and it was gone fast. I’d 100% make this again.
I don’t understand why put breadcrumbs? Isn’t that more for meatballs? I tried it and it was okay, but not great. Maybe just stick to the beef?
Breadcrumbs help bind the patties and keep them moist! It’s not just for meatballs! Try it with more seasoning next time!
Tasted just like my grandma used to make! Comfort food at its best. Thanks for sharing!
Yum! Just what I needed for dinner! So comforting!
I added mushrooms to the gravy for more flavor and it was bomb!
Sounds delicious! I’m definitely gonna try adding mushrooms next time. Thanks for the tip!
Mushrooms? I bet that changes the whole dish! But isn’t Salisbury steak supposed to be just meat? 🤔
So good. Like diner food but at home. The egg + breadcrumbs held everything together nicely. I served it with mashed potatoes—perfect.
This was amazing! Family loved it, especially the gravy!
Delicious! My kids loved it. Will definitely make again. 👍
Gravy ruined. I whisked but it was lumpy—could’ve been the flour. Still ate it though. Next time I’ll sift the flour.
Why breadcrumbs AND egg? I was skeptical but it actually held together nicely. Gravy came out smooth. Would make again for meal prep.
I’m with you—breadcrumbs + egg sounds a little extra, but the binding really makes sense. I’ve had patties crumble before, so this is helpful. Gravy being smooth is the win 👌
Wait… egg + breadcrumbs? I usually just use breadcrumbs and maybe a splash of milk. Still, if yours held together, I might try it—though I’d probably use 1/2 lb beef instead. Sounds good for meal prep tho.
I made this for my family and they actually asked for seconds. The onions got that sweet-golden flavor and the patties held together well. Easy weeknight meal, 10/10.
Not bad, but I found the patties a little bland. Maybe I under-salted? The instructions say “to taste” and I’m not the best at that. The onions were perfect, so I’ll adjust seasoning next time.
I get that—mine were bland once too, and it turned out I was going super light on the salt. “To taste” is brutal when you’re not used to it. Love that your onions came out perfect though!
This is super comforting—my whole kitchen smelled amazing. The onion gravy turned out silky, and the patties stayed juicy. I used low-sodium broth like the recipe and it still had great flavor. Will make again.
Yes!! This sounds exactly like the kind of dinner that makes the kitchen smell “homey.” Glad the gravy stayed silky and the patties stayed juicy—thanks for sharing your tweaks!
I tried it and my gravy never really thickened—tasted fine but it was more like soup. I think my heat was too low or I didn’t whisk enough. Any tips? (Also, I forgot to cover at the end, oops.)
Yeah, if it stayed “soupy,” it’s usually not enough simmer time after adding the flour. I’d bring the broth+flour mixture to a real bubble for a couple minutes while whisking, then keep it at a steady low simmer. Covering also helps it reduce/thicken a bit.
The onions took longer than 5 minutes to get golden for me. Once I gave it time, the whole thing tasted great. Patience wins.
Solid recipe. I didn’t have low-sodium broth so I added less salt, and it was still great. Patties stayed juicy even after simmering in the gravy.
Honestly, I don’t get the hype. The patties are just meatballs with gravy… I mean, sure, it tastes good, but calling it “Salisbury” is a stretch. Could’ve used more onion in the patties.
Pretty easy, but my gravy got a little lumpy until I whisked harder. Next time I’ll sprinkle the flour more slowly. Flavor is there though—Worcestershire is key.
I think I messed up the flour step 😅 I whisked the broth in too fast and it clumped. Still saved it by stirring and simmering longer. Flavor was good.
I followed it pretty much exactly and it turned out decent, but 4 patties felt small for the amount of beef. I ended up stretching them into 6 and cook time was about the same. Still yummy.
Tried it but my patties fell apart. Maybe use more breadcrumbs next time?
How come my gravy didn’t thicken like yours? I followed the steps.
The instructions are straightforward, but I had to cook the patties way longer than 4-5 min per side to get them through. After that, gravy was good and onions were sweet.
1 pound beef only makes 4 patties? Mine were huge lol. Also, onion gravy tastes like brown sauce… not mad, just unexpected.
Made this tonight—super comforting. The gravy is the real star. I added a splash of extra broth because it thickened faster than expected, but it was still great.
Really good flavor, especially the Worcestershire + garlic combo. Only thing: I think I should’ve mixed a bit less—mine came out slightly dense. Still tasted great with the gravy though.
Totally feel you on that—if the mix is a little too packed or you don’t rest it before shaping, it can go dense. Next time I’d try a touch more broth/gravy moisture and mix just until combined.
Dense, huh? Mine usually gets a bit lighter when I use leaner beef? Also are you measuring the breadcrumbs by cup, or eyeballing? I’ve kinda messed that up before and it changes the texture a lot.
I love Salisbury steak but I always mess up the thickening part. This time the gravy thickened nicely. I think covering the pan really helps the patties cook through.
Followed it pretty much exactly. Patties browned great, and the gravy thickened nicely. Only thing: I might use a touch more pepper next time, but that’s personal preference.
I like Salisbury steak, but this felt a bit “basic.” The Worcestershire helps, though. Gravy was the highlight.
Totally get that—this one is pretty “basic” compared to the fancy versions. I’m glad the Worcestershire came through for you, and same here: the onion gravy really makes it.
Good flavor, but my patties felt a little dry—next time I’ll use slightly less breadcrumbs or maybe add a splash of broth to the mix. Still tasty!
Dry patties usually mean they’re overcooked. I’d try lowering the time per side or flattening them less so they don’t cook through so fast. Breadcrumbs shouldn’t be the only culprit… but yeah, less breadcrumbs might help.
Totally agree—80/20 can get a bit dry if the patties aren’t kept juicy. I’ve had better luck adding 1-2 tbsp extra broth (or even a spoon of gravy) into the mix before forming the patties.
Super easy and I had everything on hand. My family asked for seconds, which says a lot.
I’m skeptical about the breadcrumbs ratio—mine felt a bit dry when I formed the patties. Still okay after the 10 minutes covered, just not my favorite texture.
The gravy saved it. I was worried the flour step would make it lumpy, but whisking slowly worked. Next time I’ll season the patties a touch more with pepper.
Totally agree—gravy makes everything better. I’ve had flour lumps happen when I’m impatient, so slow whisking is the move. Pepper next time is a great call!
Pretty solid recipe, but 4 patties felt huge. I ended up with smaller ones and they cooked through faster. Flavor is great though, especially with the Worcestershire.
Made this tonight and it was honestly so comforting. The onion gravy came out silky and the patties stayed juicy. Will definitely repeat.
Not sure why the flour step bothered me—mine got lumpy at first. Whisking more aggressively fixed it. After that, it thickened perfectly.
The onions took longer for me—like closer to 10 minutes to get golden. Also I salted pretty heavy and it was a bit much. Tweakable, but plan ahead.
The instructions are straightforward, but 4-5 minutes per side seems a little fast for my skillet. I had to cook a couple extra minutes to be safe. Otherwise, good flavor.
Yeah I noticed that too—4-5 min/side felt quick on my skillet. I usually go by browning plus internal temp, not just the clock. Still turned out really tasty!