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Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy

Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy

This Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy recipe offers juicy, tender beef patties smothered in a rich and savory caramelized onion gravy. A comforting classic that’s quick and easy to prepare using simple pantry staples, perfect for a family-friendly, hearty dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Patties

  • 1 lb 80/20 ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb or gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg (optional, for better binding)

For the Onion Gravy

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes and Add-ins

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
  • Cheese slices (cheddar or Swiss)
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Patties: In a mixing bowl, gently combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and egg if using. Mix carefully to avoid overworking the meat, then form the mixture into evenly sized oval patties.
  2. Brown the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil or butter. Brown the patties on each side for 3-4 minutes until they develop a nice crust but are not fully cooked inside. Remove and set aside.
  3. Caramelize the Onions: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet, then the sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until onions are golden brown and sweet.
  4. Make the Onion Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions and stir to coat. Slowly add beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until gravy thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
  5. Simmer Patties in Gravy: Return browned patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until patties are fully cooked and tender. If desired, add cheese slices on top during the last few minutes to melt.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the patties with a generous ladle of onion gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley, thyme, or green onions. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture to keep patties tender.
  • Caramelize onions slowly for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  • Adjust gravy thickness by adding broth if too thick or more flour if too thin.
  • Using a cast-iron skillet aids even browning and heat retention.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes off heat before serving for flavors to meld.
  • Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make it gluten-free.
  • Ground turkey or chicken can be used, but add extra moisture like an egg or oil to prevent dryness.
  • Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: Salisbury steak, onion gravy, comfort food, ground beef, easy dinner, family meal, classic recipe