Old-Fashioned Lean Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy

Prep: 15 minCook: 20 min4 servingsmediumAmerican
Old-Fashioned Lean Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy

Classic comfort food featuring tender ground beef patties seasoned with horseradish and onion, pan-fried until golden brown and smothered in savory mushroom gravy. This lighter version uses lean beef, fat-free gravy, and egg whites while maintaining all the hearty satisfaction of the traditional dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you crave homestyle cooking, served over noodles or mashed potatoes. The addition of prepared horseradish gives these patties a subtle kick that sets them apart from basic versions.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
    ground turkey1:1lower-fat

    reduces fat content

    Full guide →
  • 1 egg white, lightly beaten
  • cup onion, chopped
  • ¼ cup saltines, crushed
    breadcrumbs1:1gluten-freeadds gluten

    use GF breadcrumbs if needed

  • 2 tablespoons fat-free milk
    regular milk1:1richer

    adds fat content

  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
    Dijon mustard1:1milder

    different flavor profile

    Full guide →
  • ¼ teaspoon salt(optional)
    breadcrumbs1:1gluten-freeadds gluten

    use GF breadcrumbs if needed

    Full guide →
  • teaspoon pepper
  • 1 jar (12 ounces) fat-free beef gravy
  • 1 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • hot cooked noodles(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine ground beef, egg white, chopped onion, crushed saltines, milk, horseradish, salt and pepper in large bowl

  2. 2

    Mix ingredients thoroughly and shape into four equal oblong patties

  3. 3

    Heat large skillet over medium heat and cook patties 5-6 minutes per side until browned and no longer pink

  4. 4

    Remove patties and keep warm

  5. 5

    Add gravy, mushrooms and water to skillet and simmer 3-5 minutes until mushrooms are cooked

  6. 6

    Spoon gravy over patties and serve immediately

Tips

Tip 1

Add oil or pan spray to skillet before cooking patties for better browning and to prevent sticking

Tip 2

Use instant-read thermometer to ensure patties reach 160°F internal temperature for food safety

Tip 3

Keep cooked patties warm while preparing gravy to maintain serving temperature

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Patties can be shaped and refrigerated up to 4 hours before cooking

Serve With

Serve hot over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overmix meat mixture to avoid tough patties

Watch

Use medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking

Watch

Don't skip resting time for mushrooms to cook properly

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Swaps

saltines
breadcrumbs1:1gluten-freeadds gluten

use GF breadcrumbs if needed

Full guide →

General Alternatives

ground beef
ground turkey1:1lower-fat

reduces fat content

Full guide →
fat-free milk
regular milk1:1richer

adds fat content

prepared horseradish
Dijon mustard1:1milder

different flavor profile

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I freeze the uncooked patties?

Yes, shaped patties can be frozen up to 3 months. Thaw completely in refrigerator before cooking and add 2-3 extra minutes per side.

What if I don't have prepared horseradish?

Substitute with 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce for similar tangy flavor, though the taste will be different.

How long will leftovers keep?

Cooked Salisbury steak keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat gently in microwave or covered skillet with splash of broth.