Salisbury Steak Recipe

Do you ever crave a hearty, nostalgic meal that feels like a warm hug? If so, the Salisbury steak recipe is exactly what you need! This dish, often found in diners and family dinner tables, has a rich history as an American classic. Originating in the 1800s as a budget-friendly way to enjoy a steak-like meal, Salisbury steak has become a staple in American cuisine. It’s affordable, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it the perfect comfort food. With its juicy, tender patties smothered in a delicious brown gravy, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Recipe Card

Salisbury Steak Recipe

• Description: A classic comfort food featuring beef patties in a savory mushroom gravy. Ideal for weeknight dinners!
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Steak Patties:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into four oval patties.
2. Cook the Patties: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until browned. Remove patties from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add olive oil, mushrooms, and chopped onions. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir until absorbed. Gradually add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, whisking to combine. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve: Return the patties to the skillet and spoon the gravy over them. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the patties are cooked through. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This easy Salisbury steak recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that provide a steak-like experience.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of tender beef patties and savory mushroom gravy is incredibly satisfying.
• Family Favorite: The flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a perfect family meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to fit different dietary needs or preferences.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

1. Ground Beef: Traditional Salisbury steak uses ground beef, but you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
2. Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the patties. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for a slightly crunchier texture.
3. Mushrooms: Adds a rich, earthy flavor to the gravy. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can omit them or substitute them with finely chopped carrots.
4. Worcestershire Sauce: Essential for the savory depth of flavor in both the patties and gravy. Soy sauce can be used as an alternative.
5. Beef Broth: Forms the base of the gravy. Chicken or vegetable broth can work in a pinch, but beef broth provides the richest flavor.

How to Make Salisbury Steak Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Steak Patties

In a big bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to thoroughly blend the ingredients until they’re uniformly mixed. Then, shape the mixture into four oval patties, which will help them cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of olive oil to coat the bottom. Carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring there’s enough space between them to cook evenly. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they’re browned on the outside. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked yet; they’ll finish cooking in the gravy. After the patties are nicely browned, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables for Gravy

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onions. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are soft. This step is crucial for building the rich, deep flavor of the gravy.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle a tablespoon of flour over the mixture of mushrooms and onions in the skillet. Stir it in until the flour is absorbed and forms a paste, which will help thicken the gravy. Slowly add the beef broth, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce without any lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard (if using), then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.

Step 5: Combine Patties and Gravy

Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them to keep them moist. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure the patties are fully cooked and have absorbed the flavors of the gravy. Once done, serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean ground beef will keep the patties juicy without too much grease in the skillet.
• Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the patty ingredients, avoid over-mixing, as this can make the patties tough.
• Let the Gravy Thicken Slowly: Be patient when making the gravy; giving it time to simmer allows the flavors to develop and thicken properly.
• Add Dijon Mustard for Extra Flavor: While optional, Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that enhances the gravy’s depth.

Variations and Customizations

1. Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs in the patties to reduce carbs.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
3. Vegetarian Salisbury Steak: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth for a meatless version that still delivers flavor.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy for some heat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage: Place leftover Salisbury steak in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through. If the gravy has become too thick while stored, add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Salisbury steak recipe with:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice that soaks up the gravy perfectly.
• Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, carrots, or peas make excellent sides.
• Rice: White or brown rice works well as a base for the gravy.
• Buttered Noodles: A delicious option that adds a comforting touch to the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Salisbury steak?

A: Yes! Salisbury steak can be frozen. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove before serving.

Q: How is Salisbury steak different from hamburger steak?

A: While both dishes use ground beef, Salisbury steak often includes breadcrumbs, egg, and seasoning in the patty mixture and is typically served with a rich gravy. Hamburger steak is simpler, often just seasoned ground beef served without a thick gravy.

Q: Is it possible to substitute ground turkey for ground beef?

A: Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a cleaner alternative. Just note that the flavor may be milder, so consider adding a bit more seasoning to the patties.

Q: Is this an old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe?

A: Yes! This recipe keeps true to traditional ingredients and techniques, making it an old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe that brings nostalgia and delicious flavor.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Salisbury steak recipe, you might also like:

• Braised Beef Recipe: Dive into tender, melt-in-your-mouth braised beef, slow-cooked in rich flavors for the perfect cozy meal.
• Birria Tacos Recipe: Spice up your meal with savory, juicy birria tacos, loaded with authentic flavors and perfect for dipping!

And there you have it!

There’s a reason why the Salisbury steak recipe has stood the test of time. With its juicy patties, rich gravy, and simple preparation, this dish is a fantastic choice for both busy weeknights and cozy weekend dinners. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or revisiting a classic, Salisbury steak is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!