Amy’s Vegetarian Salisbury Steak Recipe Made Easy

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’re craving the comforting, hearty flavors of traditional Salisbury steak but prefer a vegetarian option, Amy’s Vegetarian Salisbury Steak recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly captures the savory depth and satisfying texture of the classic favorite, without any meat.

Made with wholesome plant-based ingredients, it offers a delicious and nutritious alternative that even meat-lovers will adore. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a weeknight meal that warms the soul, this recipe fits the bill beautifully.

Amy’s version combines flavorful mushrooms, lentils, and oats to create a patty that’s both tender and packed with umami goodness. Smothered in a rich, homemade mushroom gravy, it’s a perfect marriage of comfort and nutrition.

Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable to your taste preferences. Let’s dive into why this vegetarian Salisbury steak recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Salisbury steak recipe is more than just a meatless alternative. It’s a celebration of flavors and textures that bring the nostalgic delight of Salisbury steak to a plant-based plate.

  • Rich, savory flavor: The combination of mushrooms, herbs, and Worcestershire sauce gives the patties a deep, meaty umami taste.
  • Hearty and filling: Lentils and oats provide a satisfying bite and excellent protein content.
  • Comfort food classic: Topped with a luscious mushroom gravy, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction.
  • Easy to customize: You can add your favorite spices or swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry.
  • Great for meal prep: These patties hold up well refrigerated or frozen, making them perfect for busy weeks.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
  • 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated carrot
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian-friendly)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Mushroom Gravy:

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Chopping board and knife
  • Small saucepan (for gravy)
  • Whisk (for gravy)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lentils: If you haven’t cooked lentils yet, rinse ½ cup dry lentils and simmer in water for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and cool.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Mix the patty base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, breadcrumbs, grated carrot, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If too loose, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of vegetable broth.
  4. Shape the patties: With your hands, form the mixture into 4-6 oval patties, about ¾ inch thick.
  5. Cook the patties: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and firm. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
  6. Make the mushroom gravy: In a saucepan, melt vegan butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release moisture and onions soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  7. Add liquids and simmer: Slowly whisk in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve: Place patties on plates and generously spoon mushroom gravy over the top. Enjoy immediately!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra boost of flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the mushroom gravy or sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top just before serving.”

  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free oats and breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Spicy kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the patty mixture for subtle heat.
  • Cheesy twist: Mix in ¼ cup vegan cheese shreds into the patty base for melty goodness.
  • Meal prep friendly: Double the recipe and freeze patties uncooked. When ready, thaw and cook as instructed.
  • Mushroom variety: Experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a richer flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 patty with gravy)
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 14 g
Carbohydrates 35 g
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Fat 7 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Sodium 450 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Salisbury steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic sides, making it a versatile dish to suit your mood or occasion.

  • Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food companion to rich mushroom gravy.
  • Roasted vegetables: Try roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a colorful plate.
  • Steamed rice or quinoa: A lighter grain option to soak up the delicious gravy.
  • Fresh side salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the hearty flavors.

For more comforting meal ideas, check out our Bread And Gravy Recipe or warm up with the rich flavors of Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. If you’re interested in more vegetarian-friendly options, explore the delightful Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes for a quick and tasty supper.

Conclusion

Amy’s Vegetarian Salisbury Steak recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy a classic comfort dish without meat, proving that vegetarian meals can be just as hearty and flavorful. The combination of lentils, mushrooms, and oats creates a satisfying texture, while the savory mushroom gravy brings the dish to life with rich, comforting flavors.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their routine or simply craving a delicious, home-cooked dinner. Easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of Salisbury steak in a whole new way!

📖 Recipe Card: Amy's Vegetarian Salisbury Steak Recipe

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian take on classic Salisbury steak, made with mushrooms and lentils. Perfectly seasoned and served with a rich mushroom gravy.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup mushroom gravy

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine lentils, mushrooms, breadcrumbs, onion, and garlic.
  2. Add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  3. Form mixture into 4 patties.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  5. Cook patties 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
  6. Pour mushroom gravy over patties and simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 30 g

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Marta K

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