When it comes to comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe absolutely steals the show. Imagine perfectly seasoned, tender ground beef patties cooked to juicy perfection, then smothered in a luscious mushroom gravy that’s rich, savory, and utterly satisfying. This classic American dish transforms everyday ingredients into a memorable meal that comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe, it will become a beloved staple on your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe means gathering a short list of simple but important ingredients. Each one plays a special role, whether tenderizing the beef, infusing flavor, or building that silky, mouthwatering gravy.
- 1 egg and 1 egg yolk: These bind the patties together to hold their shape while keeping them tender.
- ½ cup fresh soft white bread crumbs: Adds moisture and softness, ensuring the steaks stay juicy.
- 3 tablespoons chicken broth or milk: Keeps the meat mixture moist and flavorful.
- 2 pounds 85% lean ground beef: The star of the dish, providing that hearty, satisfying texture.
- 1 cup minced yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth to the patties.
- 3 garlic cloves, pressed or minced: Adds a robust, aromatic punch.
- 2 tablespoons Italian flat leaf parsley, minced: Fresh herbal notes brighten up the beef.
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme, crushed: Earthy, aromatic flavor that pairs brilliantly with beef.
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard: A subtle zing that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasoning for balance and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons canola oil: For browning the patties perfectly.
- Mushroom sauce ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter, 8 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced, ⅓ cup diced yellow onion, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, ⅓ cup ketchup, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 2 cups chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon optional lemon juice.
- Minced parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a finishing touch.
How to Make Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Flavor and Mix the Hamburger Mixture
Start by whisking the egg and egg yolk in a large bowl. Stir in the bread crumbs and chicken broth or milk until the mixture feels moist. This base is what keeps your patties tender and juicy throughout cooking. Next, add the ground beef, minced onion, pressed garlic, parsley, dried thyme, dry mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Wet your hands with cool water to keep the mixture from sticking and gently combine everything until it’s evenly mixed. This is where the magic begins, building layers of flavor that will make every bite unforgettable.
Step 2: Form the Meat into Steaks
Divide the beef mixture into six equal portions and gently shape each one into an oblong patty about three-quarters of an inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and use your fingertips to press gentle dimples into the tops of the steaks. These dimples stop the patties from bulging in the middle while cooking, keeping their shape perfect and presentation beautiful.
Step 3: Cook the Steaks
Heat canola oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add half of the steaks and cook each side for about 5 minutes, until nicely browned. Flip them, and cook for an additional 3 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. This method locks in the juices while developing a rich crust. Remove the cooked steaks and tent them with foil to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining steaks.
Step 4: Start the Mushroom Sauce
Wipe out any burned bits from the skillet to avoid bitterness. Melt butter over medium heat, then add the sliced mushrooms. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their earthy flavor, scraping up any leftover tasty bits from the pan. Toss in the diced onion, kosher salt, and pepper, cooking for 2 more minutes to bring out the sweetness and aroma.
Step 5: Build and Thicken the Mushroom Gravy
Sprinkle the mushroom mixture with cornstarch and stir well to coat each piece. This thickens the gravy beautifully without any lumps. Whisk in ketchup and Worcestershire sauce to infuse a tangy depth. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should reduce by one-third, becoming thick and rich enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you want a bit of brightness, add a teaspoon of lemon juice.
Step 6: Combine Steaks and Gravy
Return the browned steaks to the skillet, spooning the luscious mushroom gravy over each one. Let everything warm through together for a few minutes so the flavors marry perfectly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh minced parsley for that inviting pop of green, and you’re ready to serve up pure comfort.
How to Serve Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of minced parsley not only adds vibrant color but also infuses each bite with fresh herbal notes that balance the rich mushroom gravy. For a little extra flair, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a few thinly sliced green onions to brighten the dish even more. These simple touches make the meal feel just a bit more special.
Side Dishes
This hearty Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a natural companion, soaking up every last bit of the gravy. For some greens, roasted broccoli or buttered green beans add crunch and freshness. You can also serve with buttered egg noodles or a warm crusty bread to mop up the sauce—nothing goes to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
To elevate this traditional dish, serve the Salisbury steaks over a bed of buttery polenta or garlicky mashed cauliflower for a fun twist. For gatherings, arrange individual portions on a platter, drizzle extra mushroom gravy over the top, and garnish lavishly with parsley. Presentation is all about showcasing that rich sauce and tender steak, inviting everyone to dig in eagerly!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Salisbury steak and mushroom gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its juicy texture and rich flavors well for up to 3 days, making for easy packed lunches or quick reheated dinners.
Freezing
This Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the steaks with gravy into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy the same full flavor and tenderness as freshly made.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low to medium heat, spooning extra gravy over the steaks to keep them moist. You can also reheat in the microwave covered loosely with a damp paper towel in short bursts to avoid drying out. Taking care in reheating ensures your leftovers stay as delicious as the first serving.
FAQs
Can I use different types of ground meat?
Absolutely! While 85% lean ground beef gives the perfect balance of flavor and fat, you can try ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for a slightly different taste and texture. Just be mindful that leaner meats may need an extra touch of moisture or fat to keep the patties juicy.
What mushrooms work best for the gravy?
Cremini mushrooms are ideal for their rich, deep flavor and firm texture, but you can substitute baby bella or white button mushrooms if you prefer. Fresh mushrooms will always give you the best taste compared to canned varieties.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
The key is using the eggs and bread crumbs, which act as natural binders to hold everything together. Also, mixing gently to combine without overworking the meat helps maintain tenderness while ensuring the steaks stay intact during cooking.
Can I make the mushroom gravy without cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute an equal amount of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce. Just sprinkle it over the mushrooms and onions, stirring well before adding the liquids to avoid lumps. The gravy will still be rich and delicious!
What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?
Reheat slowly over low heat on the stove or in short microwave intervals with a cover to trap moisture. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating can help keep the gravy smooth and the steaks juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something incredibly satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re new to making Salisbury steak or craving a homemade classic, this recipe shines with its tender patties and rich mushroom sauce. Give it a try soon—you’re going to love how quickly it becomes a go-to in your kitchen!
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Juicy Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe
This classic Salisbury steak recipe features juicy beef patties seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it transforms simple ground beef into a flavorful main course in just about 40 minutes.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Steaks:
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ cup fresh soft white bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons chicken broth or milk
- 2 pounds 85% lean ground beef
- 1 cup minced yellow onion
- 3 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
- 2 tablespoons Italian flat leaf parsley, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme, crushed
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- ⅓ cup diced yellow onion
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, optional
- Minced parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Flavor and mix the hamburger mixture: In a large bowl, whisk 1 egg and 1 egg yolk. Stir in ½ cup fresh white bread crumbs and 3 tablespoons chicken broth or milk until moist. Add 2 pounds lean ground beef, 1 cup minced yellow onion, 3 pressed garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons minced parsley, 1 ½ teaspoons crushed dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix well.
- Form the meat into steaks: Wet your hands in cool water and combine the beef mixture until even. Divide the meat into 6 equal portions and flatten each into oblong shapes about ¾-inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently dimple the tops to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Cook the steaks: Heat 2 tablespoons canola oil in a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan over medium-high heat. Add 3 patties and sear for 5 minutes until browned, then flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Transfer cooked steaks to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm. Repeat with remaining steaks.
- Start the mushroom sauce: Wipe out any browned bits from the skillet. Melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until softened, scraping up fond. Add ⅓ cup diced onion, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper; cook for 2 more minutes while stirring.
- Add the sauce emulsifiers and flavor builders: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons cornstarch over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat. Whisk in ⅓ cup ketchup and 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Gradually stir in 2 cups chicken broth and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces by one-third, coating the back of a spoon. Adjust seasoning and optionally stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice to brighten.
- Add the steaks back to the mushroom gravy: Return the steaks along with their juices to the skillet. Spoon the sauce over top and cook until warmed through. Garnish with fresh minced parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Using 85% lean ground beef strikes a nice balance between flavor and moisture.
- Gently dimpling the meat patties before cooking helps prevent them from puffing up.
- The mushroom gravy can be adjusted in thickness by varying the cornstarch amount slightly.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Cooking steaks until they reach 145°F ensures juicy and safe-to-eat beef.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American