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Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy

Tender beef patties seared until browned, then smothered in a rich mushroom-free onion gravy and served with roasted potatoes and peas.

By Steak House Diaries Editorial Desk | Published | Updated | 2 min read

Illustration for the article Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy

Tender beef patties are seared until browned, then smothered in a rich mushroom-free onion gravy that is savory and deeply comforting. Served with roasted potatoes and green peas, this is the nostalgic dinner many people grew up with, made properly from scratch.

Ingredients

Beef patties:

500 g ground beef

1/3 cup breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

Rich onion gravy:

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 large onion, thinly sliced

2 cups beef broth

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Sides and serving:

4 medium potatoes, cubed and roasted

2 cups green peas (fresh or steamed)

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)

Method

1. Mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper, then shape into 4 oval patties.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and sear the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan, melt the butter and cook the sliced onion over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, until soft and golden.

4. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then pour in the beef broth gradually, stirring to avoid lumps.

5. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper, and simmer until the gravy thickens.

6. Return the patties to the pan, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, until the patties reach 160°F (71°C) in the centre.

7. Serve the patties smothered in gravy with roasted potatoes, peas and a scatter of parsley.

Cooking tips

Do not overmix the beef or the patties turn tough; mix just until combined.

Browning the patties first builds flavor that carries into the gravy.

If the gravy thickens too much, thin it with a splash of broth.

Frequently asked questions

Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?

Yes. Sliced mushrooms cooked with the onions add an earthy depth that suits the dish well.

What else goes with Salisbury steak?

Mashed potatoes are the classic partner, since they soak up the gravy beautifully.

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