If you’re craving a true comfort food classic, this Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy is the recipe you’ll want to save forever. Juicy, seasoned beef patties simmered in a rich, savory onion gravy — it’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy Sunday meals.
This isn’t just hamburger steak. Authentic Salisbury steak is carefully seasoned, tenderized, and cooked in a deeply flavorful gravy that transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Salisbury Steak
✔ Tender, juicy beef patties
✔ Deeply savory caramelized onion gravy
✔ Simple pantry ingredients
✔ Budget-friendly comfort food
✔ Perfect over mashed potatoes or rice
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steaks
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tbsp milk
1 small onion, finely grated
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Onion Gravy
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large bowl:
Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk
Add grated onion, Worcestershire, mustard, and seasonings
Mix gently until just combined
Tip: Overmixing can make the patties tough.
2. Shape the Patties
Divide into 4–6 oval patties
Slightly flatten in the center (prevents puffing)
3. Brown the Steaks
Heat skillet over medium-high heat
Add oil
Brown patties 3–4 minutes per side
Remove and set aside (they’ll finish cooking in gravy)
4. Make the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet:
Melt butter
Add sliced onions
Cook 10–15 minutes until caramelized
The onions should be golden and soft — this builds flavor.
Sprinkle flour over onions
Stir and cook 1 minute
Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring
Add Worcestershire and thyme
Simmer until thickened
5. Finish Cooking
Return patties to skillet
Spoon gravy over them
Cover and simmer 10–15 minutes
Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Why This Recipe Works
Grated onion inside patties adds moisture.
Breadcrumbs create tenderness.
Browning first builds flavor.
Slow-simmered onions deepen the gravy.
The combination results in fork-tender Salisbury steak with silky onion gravy.
Serving Ideas
Serve this Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy over:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Buttered egg noodles
Steamed white rice
Roasted vegetables
Garlic bread
For a full comfort meal, add green beans or glazed carrots.
Storage & Reheating
Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
Freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with extra broth if needed.
Variations
Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy.
Use ground turkey instead of beef.
Add a splash of heavy cream for richer gravy.
Mix in chopped parsley for freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?
Salisbury steak contains breadcrumbs and seasonings mixed into the meat and is typically served with gravy.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. It reheats beautifully and flavors deepen overnight.
Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Yes. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, then simmer in gravy.
Final Thoughts
This Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy is classic American comfort food at its best. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with flavor — the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.
Don’t lose this recipe — once you make it, it will become a family favorite.