Salisbury steak is a classic American comfort dish with ground beef patties smothered in a rich brown gravy. It was originally created by Dr. James H. Salisbury in the 19th century as part of a high-protein diet. Here’s how you make it.

Ingredients

For the Patties:

• 450g (1 lb) ground beef (preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup button mushrooms/baby portobello
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or cornstarch slurry for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, egg, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat. Shape into 3-4 oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned (they don’t need to be fully cooked). Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Make the Gravy:

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the sliced onions and mushrooms until soft.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then slowly add the beef broth while stirring.
4. Mix in Worcestershire sauce and ketchup, then let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. Finish the Dish:

1. Return the patties to the pan, spooning some gravy over them.
2. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked.
3. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions:

• Traditionally served with mashed potatoes and buttered green beans.
• Also great with steamed rice or egg noodles.