Bacon Cheddar Salisbury Steak is a delicious twist on the traditional Salisbury steak, combining juicy ground beef with sharp cheddar cheese and smoky bacon flavor. It’s hearty, rich, and satisfying — perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. This dish brings together the comfort of meatloaf and the elegance of steak in a way that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
🧂 Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s look at what goes into this savory meal:
For the Patties:
1 pound ground beef
The base of your steak. Use 80/20 beef for a juicy and flavorful result.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Helps bind the mixture and absorb moisture, giving the patties a tender texture.
1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Adds sharp, creamy richness inside the steak — a cheesy surprise in every bite.
1/4 cup milk
Moistens the mixture and helps keep it soft while cooking.
1 egg
Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Adds depth, umami, and a slightly tangy flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste
Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor.
Optional: 1/4 cup chopped onion or 2 strips cooked crumbled bacon
For even more flavor and texture.
For Cooking & Gravy:
2 tablespoons olive oil
Used to sear the patties and develop a golden crust.
1 cup beef broth
Forms the base of the rich, savory gravy.
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
Thickens the gravy to coat the patties beautifully.
Fresh parsley, chopped
Adds a burst of color and freshness before serving.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
- Make the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Grated cheddar cheese
Milk
Egg
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
(Optional: chopped onion or bacon)
Mix gently using your hands or a spoon until well incorporated — don’t overmix, or the meat may become tough.
Shape the mixture into 4–5 oval patties, each about 3/4-inch thick.
- Cook the Patties
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until well-browned and cooked through (internal temp should be 160°F / 70°C).
Once done, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Gravy
Using the same skillet (don’t clean it — the brown bits add flavor!), pour in 1 cup beef broth.
Bring to a gentle simmer, scraping the pan to deglaze.
In a small bowl, stir 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to make a slurry.
Slowly pour the slurry into the broth while stirring continuously. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Combine & Finish
Return the cooked patties to the skillet and spoon the thickened gravy over them.
Let them simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to absorb flavor.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
With Mashed Potatoes: A creamy base to soak up the rich gravy.
Over Buttered Egg Noodles or Rice: Great for a heartier meal.
With Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts pair perfectly.
Stuffed into a Bun: Make a Salisbury steak sandwich!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but be aware the flavor will be milder. Add more seasonings to compensate, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I add actual bacon to the patties?
Absolutely! Chop up 2 cooked strips of bacon and mix them into the ground beef for a smoky boost.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Try Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for a twist. Sharp cheddar offers the most classic taste.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Cook the patties and gravy, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes. Let everything cool completely, wrap the steaks tightly (with or without gravy), and freeze for up to 2 months.
🔥 Pro Tips
Don’t overwork the meat mixture — mix just until combined.
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and texture.
Deglaze the skillet well to get maximum flavor in the gravy.
Double the gravy if serving with mashed potatoes or rice!
🧾 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
🧡 Final Thoughts
Bacon Cheddar Salisbury Steak is the kind of comfort food that makes any evening feel special. With its juicy beef patties, melty cheddar, and savory brown gravy, it’s the perfect blend of flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy.
