If you've ever had Salisbury steak, you know that it is not actually a "steak" at all. In fact, it's more like a combination of a flattened meatball and a hamburger patty. In the US - the Salisbury steak can be traced back to its first mentions in 1897. It was invented by Dr. James Salisbury. Typically made from ground beef, Salisbury steak differs from a hamburger patty because it often includes crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and more seasonings. It is also typically served with a brown gravy, usually containing mushrooms and onions.