12 Ultimate Salisbury Steak Recipes for Comfort Dining
Salisbury steak is a beloved mid-century classic that has stood the test of time, offering a comforting blend of savory ground beef and rich, velvety gravy. Far from being just a simple hamburger, a true Salisbury steak is seasoned to perfection and simmered until tender, making it a staple of American home cooking. In this collection, we present twelve distinct variations that elevate this humble dish from a quick weeknight meal to a gourmet experience. Whether you crave the traditional mushroom-smothered version or want to try a bold new flavor like bourbon glaze or spicy jalapeño, these recipes provide detailed steps to ensure a delicious result every time.
Classic Mushroom Salisbury Steak
The quintessential version of the dish, featuring tender beef patties and a thick, savory mushroom gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- •1 large egg
- •1/4 cup whole milk
- •1 tsp onion powder
- •1 tsp garlic powder
- •2 cups sliced mushrooms
- •2 cups beef broth
- •2 tbsp flour
- •Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- 1
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder, mixing gently by hand until just combined to ensure the patties remain tender.
- 2
2. Shape the mixture into four to six oval-shaped patties and season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper.
- 3
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil and sear the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply browned, then remove them and set aside.
- 4
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, picking up the flavorful bits left by the beef.
- 5
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for one minute before slowly whisking in the beef broth to create a smooth, thickening gravy base.
- 6
6. Return the patties to the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the gravy has reached your desired consistency.
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French Onion Salisbury Steak
Inspired by the flavors of French onion soup, this version uses caramelized onions and melted Gruyere cheese for a sophisticated twist.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- •1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- •1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- •1 tsp dried thyme
- •2 cups beef consommé
- •1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- •2 tbsp butter
- •Salt and pepper
Method
- 1
1. Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat and adding the sliced onions, cooking them slowly for about 20-25 minutes until they are dark gold and caramelized.
- 2
2. While the onions cook, mix the ground beef with breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then form into patties.
- 3
3. Remove half of the caramelized onions from the pan and set aside, then push the remaining onions to the edge and brown the beef patties on both sides.
- 4
4. Pour the beef consommé into the skillet and stir in the reserved onions, bringing the liquid to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors together.
- 5
5. Once the patties are cooked through, top each one with a generous portion of shredded Gruyere cheese and cover the pan for 2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- 6
6. Serve the cheesy patties with plenty of the onion gravy spooned over the top for a rich and indulgent meal.
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Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak
An effortless way to prepare this meal, allowing the beef to become incredibly tender while the gravy develops a deep, slow-cooked flavor.
Ingredients
- •2 lbs ground beef
- •1 packet dry onion soup mix
- •1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- •1/4 cup water
- •2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
- •1 cup beef broth
- •1/2 tsp black pepper
Method
- 1
1. Combine the ground beef, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, and water in a bowl, kneading the mixture just enough to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- 2
2. Form the meat into 6 large patties and brown them quickly in a hot skillet for 2 minutes per side to lock in the juices and provide color.
- 3
3. Place the browned patties into the bottom of a slow cooker, stacking them slightly if necessary to fit the space.
- 4
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the condensed mushroom soup, beef broth, and black pepper until the mixture is uniform and smooth.
- 5
5. Pour the soup mixture over the patties in the slow cooker, making sure every patty is well-coated to prevent them from drying out during the long cook time.
- 6
6. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the meat is tender and the sauce has transformed into a thick, creamy gravy.
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Garlic Herb Butter Salisbury Steak
A fragrant and buttery version that skips the heavy brown gravy in favor of a luxurious garlic and herb-infused butter sauce.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •4 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- •1 tsp fresh rosemary, minced
- •1/2 cup softened butter
- •1/2 cup crushed crackers
- •1 egg
- •1/2 cup beef stock
- •Salt and pepper
Method
- 1
1. Mix the ground beef with the crushed crackers, egg, half of the minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper before forming them into uniform oval patties.
- 2
2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the remaining garlic, parsley, and rosemary to create a compound herb butter.
- 3
3. Sear the patties in a skillet over medium heat until they are cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes per side, then remove them from the pan.
- 4
4. Deglaze the skillet by pouring in the beef stock and scraping up the browned bits, then whisk in half of the prepared herb butter until it melts into a glossy sauce.
- 5
5. Return the steaks to the pan and spoon the buttery sauce over them repeatedly to glaze the exterior with the garlic and herb essence.
- 6
6. Serve each steak with an extra dollop of the remaining herb butter on top, allowing it to melt slowly as it reaches the table.
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Spicy Tex-Mex Salisbury Steak
A zesty take on the classic using taco seasonings, diced green chiles, and a spicy tomato-based gravy for a southwestern flair.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •1 packet taco seasoning
- •1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
- •1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
- •1 cup red enchilada sauce
- •1/2 cup beef broth
- •1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- •Fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
- 1
1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with the taco seasoning, half of the green chiles, and the crushed tortilla chips until well blended.
- 2
2. Shape the seasoned beef into patties and brown them in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side.
- 3
3. In a separate container, whisk the red enchilada sauce, the remaining green chiles, and the beef broth together to form the base of your spicy gravy.
- 4
4. Pour the sauce over the seared patties in the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low, allowing the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes.
- 5
5. Top each patty with a slice or a handful of shredded pepper jack cheese and cover the skillet until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- 6
6. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with a side of Mexican rice or black beans for a complete Tex-Mex dinner experience.
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Bacon Wrapped Salisbury Steak
Indulgent beef patties wrapped in crispy bacon strips, providing a smoky flavor and extra juiciness to every single bite.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •8-10 slices of bacon
- •1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- •1 tbsp steak sauce
- •1 tsp smoked paprika
- •2 cups brown gravy mix
- •1/2 onion, minced
- •Black pepper
Method
- 1
1. Combine the ground beef, minced onion, breadcrumbs, steak sauce, and smoked paprika in a bowl, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- 2
2. Form the meat into 4 thick oval patties, then carefully wrap each patty with two slices of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
- 3
3. Place the bacon-wrapped patties in a cold skillet and then turn the heat to medium, allowing the bacon fat to render out as the meat cooks.
- 4
4. Flip the patties carefully and cook until the bacon is crispy on all sides and the beef is cooked to your preferred level of doneness.
- 5
5. Remove the excess bacon grease from the pan, leaving just a tablespoon, then pour in your prepared brown gravy mix and simmer gently.
- 6
6. Spoon the gravy over the bacon-wrapped steaks, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful before serving them hot.
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Red Wine Salisbury Steak
An elegant version of the dish that utilizes a dry red wine reduction in the gravy for a deep, complex, and slightly fruity flavor profile.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •1/2 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet)
- •1.5 cups beef stock
- •2 tbsp tomato paste
- •1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- •1 shallot, finely minced
- •2 tbsp fresh parsley
- •2 tbsp butter
Method
- 1
1. Mix the ground beef with the breadcrumbs, minced shallots, and chopped parsley, then shape into several uniform patties for even cooking.
- 2
2. Brown the patties in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, then remove them and drain any excessive fat from the pan.
- 3
3. In the same hot pan, whisk in the tomato paste and cook for one minute before deglazing with the red wine, scraping the bottom to release the fond.
- 4
4. Let the wine reduce by half to concentrate the flavor, then stir in the beef stock and return the beef patties to the liquid.
- 5
5. Simmer the patties in the wine sauce for about 10 minutes until the sauce has thickened into a luxurious, dark glaze.
- 6
6. Finish the sauce by whisking in a tablespoon of cold butter for a silky texture and shiny appearance before serving.
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Cheese Stuffed Salisbury Steak
A surprise inside every patty, these steaks are stuffed with sharp cheddar cheese that melts into a delicious center during cooking.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into small blocks
- •1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- •1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- •1 tsp mustard powder
- •2 cups onion gravy
- •1/2 tsp salt
Method
- 1
1. Divide the seasoned ground beef mixture into eight thin, flat portions instead of the usual thicker patties to prepare for stuffing.
- 2
2. Place a small block of cheddar cheese in the center of four of the portions, then top with the remaining four portions of meat.
- 3
3. Press the edges of the beef together firmly to seal the cheese inside, ensuring there are no gaps where the cheese could leak out during searing.
- 4
4. Sear the stuffed patties in a skillet over medium heat, being careful when flipping to maintain the integrity of the sealed edges.
- 5
5. Once browned, pour the onion gravy into the skillet and cover the pan, allowing the beef to finish cooking and the cheese to melt internally.
- 6
6. Serve the steaks whole so that the diner can cut into the center and experience the molten cheese flowing out into the gravy.
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Bourbon Glazed Salisbury Steak
A bold and slightly sweet recipe featuring a gravy spiked with bourbon whiskey and a touch of brown sugar for a unique smoky taste.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- •2 tbsp brown sugar
- •1 tbsp soy sauce
- •1.5 cups beef broth
- •1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- •1 tsp garlic powder
- •1 tbsp cornstarch
Method
- 1
1. Prepare your patties by mixing the beef with breadcrumbs and garlic powder, then sear them in a hot skillet until a nice crust forms on both sides.
- 2
2. Remove the patties and carefully pour the bourbon into the hot pan, allowing the alcohol to cook off for about 30 seconds while stirring.
- 3
3. Whisk in the beef broth, brown sugar, and soy sauce, bringing the liquid to a simmer while the sugar dissolves completely.
- 4
4. Create a slurry by mixing the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering bourbon liquid to thicken it.
- 5
5. Return the beef to the pan and coat each patty thoroughly with the thickening glaze, simmering for another 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- 6
6. Serve these steaks with roasted carrots or potatoes to complement the sweet and smoky notes of the bourbon sauce.
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Caramelized Onion Salisbury Steak
This version focuses on the natural sweetness of slow-cooked onions, providing a deep flavor profile without the need for many spices.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •3 large sweet onions, sliced
- •2 tbsp olive oil
- •1/2 cup beef broth
- •1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- •1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- •Salt and pepper
Method
- 1
1. Sauté the sliced sweet onions in olive oil over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are soft, dark, and sweet.
- 2
2. While the onions are caramelizing, prepare your beef patties with breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, then sear them in a separate skillet.
- 3
3. Once the onions are ready, add the balsamic vinegar to the onion pan to deglaze and add a subtle tang to the sweetness.
- 4
4. Transfer the seared beef patties into the pan with the caramelized onions and add the beef broth to create a light, natural gravy.
- 5
5. Simmer everything together for 10 minutes, allowing the onions to break down further and the beef to absorb the onion essence.
- 6
6. Serve the steaks topped with a mountain of the soft onions, ensuring every bite includes a perfect balance of meat and sweetness.
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Country Pepper Salisbury Steak
A rustic and hearty variation that uses a cracked black pepper crust and a creamy white country-style gravy for a southern feel.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •2 tbsp cracked black pepper
- •1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers
- •1 cup whole milk
- •2 tbsp flour
- •1/2 cup beef broth
- •1 tsp salt
Method
- 1
1. Mix the beef with crushed saltines and half of the cracked black pepper, then form into patties and press the remaining pepper onto the surface.
- 2
2. Fry the patties in a skillet until they are fully cooked through and the pepper has formed a savory, toasted crust on the outside.
- 3
3. Remove the beef and whisk the flour into the remaining pan drippings to form a roux, cooking it for two minutes until slightly golden.
- 4
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming as the gravy thickens into a creamy white sauce.
- 5
5. Season the gravy with salt and additional pepper to taste, then pour the hot cream gravy over the peppered steaks.
- 6
6. This dish is best served with thick-cut toast or biscuits to help soak up the peppery country gravy.
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Herb Garden Salisbury Steak
A lighter-feeling Salisbury steak that incorporates fresh garden herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley for a bright, aromatic experience.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lbs ground beef
- •1 tbsp fresh sage, minced
- •1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- •2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- •1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- •1.5 cups vegetable or beef broth
- •1 tsp lemon zest
- •2 tbsp flour
Method
- 1
1. Incorporate the fresh sage, thyme, parsley, and lemon zest into the ground beef along with the panko breadcrumbs for a very fragrant meat mixture.
- 2
2. Shape the meat into patties and brown them in a skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and cooked to your liking.
- 3
3. Remove the patties and add a little more oil if needed, then stir in the flour and cook for a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- 4
4. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking, creating a light-colored herb gravy that captures the essence of the fresh ingredients.
- 5
5. Return the steaks to the pan and let them simmer in the herb sauce for 5 minutes to ensure they stay juicy and flavorful.
- 6
6. Garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh herbs before serving to enhance the visual appeal and aromatic quality of the dish.
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Wrapping Up
We hope these twelve diverse Salisbury steak recipes bring a new sense of excitement to your dinner routine. Each variation offers a unique profile of flavors and textures, proving that this classic dish can be adapted for any palate. Remember that the secret to a great Salisbury steak lies in the quality of the beef and the patience taken to caramelize the onions and reduce the gravy. Serve these with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or egg noodles, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with your family and friends.