Thick, juicy beef patties coated in a rich, savory gravy—Smothered Salisbury Steak Patties are the definition of comfort food. This dish takes a simple ground beef mixture and turns it into a deeply flavorful meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Each bite is tender and packed with seasoning, while the silky brown gravy clings to every crevice of the meat. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, onions, and a touch of garlic creates a balance of umami and sweetness. Served over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, it’s a meal that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.

The best part? It all comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish delivers bold flavors without a complicated process.

Table of contents

What You’ll Need to Make the Best Salisbury Steak

This dish is built on simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Choosing quality beef and balancing the seasonings ensures the best texture and flavor.

Ground Beef – An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) works best. The fat keeps the patties juicy and tender while cooking. If you prefer leaner beef, add a splash of milk or beef broth to keep the mixture moist.
Breadcrumbs & Egg – These ingredients bind the patties together, preventing them from falling apart. They also give the steak a soft, yet structured texture.
Worcestershire Sauce & Dijon Mustard – A small amount goes a long way. These ingredients enhance the meat’s natural umami while adding depth to the gravy.
Beef Broth & Onion Gravy – The combination of broth, caramelized onions, and seasonings creates a smooth, flavorful sauce that coats every inch of the patties.

How to Make Smothered Salisbury Steak Patties

The key to a great Salisbury steak is building layers of flavor at every step. This simple method ensures the patties stay juicy while the gravy thickens perfectly.

Prepare the Patties – In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the patties dense, so use a light hand.
Shape & Sear the Patties – Form the beef mixture into oval-shaped patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the patties on both sides until browned. This step locks in moisture while creating a flavorful crust. Remove and set aside.
Make the Onion Gravy – In the same pan, cook sliced onions until soft and golden brown. Stir in a bit of butter and flour, then gradually add beef broth. This creates a silky, thickened gravy with a rich, caramelized flavor.
Simmer the Patties in Gravy – Return the patties to the pan, spooning the gravy over them. Cover and let simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked. This final step allows the meat to absorb even more flavor while staying incredibly tender.
Serve & Enjoy – Spoon extra gravy over the patties and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Every bite is packed with deep, savory goodness.

Easy Ways to Customize This Recipe

Salisbury steak is a classic, but a few tweaks can change the flavor profile and texture to fit your taste.

Use Turkey or Chicken – Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take. The seasonings and gravy will still keep the dish rich and satisfying.
Add Mushrooms – Stir sliced mushrooms into the gravy for extra depth and an earthy contrast to the savory beef.
Go Low-Carb – Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead. Serve with mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.
Spice it Up – A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper in the patty mixture adds warmth and a subtle kick.

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Why This Recipe Works Every Time

Some Salisbury steak recipes turn out dry or bland. This one doesn’t. Every element is designed to create a dish that’s both flavorful and tender.

Juicy, Well-Seasoned Patties – A perfect mix of fat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings ensures the patties stay moist without falling apart.
Rich, Velvety Gravy – A combination of beef broth, onions, and a little butter results in a thick, flavorful sauce that coats the meat beautifully.
One-Pan Convenience – Everything cooks in the same skillet, making cleanup easier and maximizing the depth of flavor.

What to Serve with Smothered Salisbury Steak Patties

A meal this rich pairs best with sides that balance its bold flavors and creamy texture. Here are a few perfect matches:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Soft, buttery mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful gravy, making every bite even better.
Buttered Egg Noodles – A simple yet satisfying option that lets the steak and gravy shine.
Steamed Green Beans – The freshness and crunch of green beans cut through the richness of the dish.
Cornbread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up every drop of that savory onion gravy.

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Smothered Salisbury Steak Patties

Smothered Salisbury Steak Patties are thick, juicy beef patties cooked in a rich, onion-filled brown gravy. This comforting, one-pan meal is packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner.

5 from 2 votes

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings serving

Equipment

Large skillet For searing the patties and making the gravy
Mixing Bowl For combining the beef mixture

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend preferred
1/2 cup breadcrumbs helps bind the patties
1 large egg lightly beaten
1 cup beef broth for making the gravy
1 large onion thinly sliced

Notes

For an extra creamy gravy, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully.

Keyword beef patties in gravy, Salisbury steak, smothered steak

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Carrie Boyd

Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.

As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.

A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!