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Tender Salisbury steak with rich caramelized onion gravy on a plate

Tender Salisbury Steak

A succulent Salisbury Steak recipe featuring juicy beef patties smothered in rich caramelized onion gravy, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the patties
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended) For juiciness
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the gravy
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • to taste Salt and pepper
Optional garnishes and sides
  • fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
  • mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles For serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, beaten egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 4 oval-shaped patties about 1 inch thick. Set aside.
Cooking the onions
  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently and cook slowly for 20-25 minutes until onions are deep amber and caramelized. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Cooking the patties
  1. Push the onions to one side of the pan. Increase heat to medium-high and add the patties. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove patties and set aside.
Making the gravy
  1. Lower heat to medium. Sprinkle flour over onions and stir well. Cook 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan. Add Worcestershire sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 5-7 minutes until gravy thickens.
Final cooking
  1. Return patties to the pan and nestle into the gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.

Notes

Store uneaten steak and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.