Salisbury Steak
Comfort food at its finest, Salisbury steak is a dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth. This recipe features juicy ground beef patties smothered in a rich mushroom gravy, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of flavors and textures will delight your taste buds, proving this classic meal is not only easy to prepare but also deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef stock, mushrooms, and seasonings creates a hearty sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Meal: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a complete dinner that suits any palate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties; everyone loves a comforting plate of Salisbury steak.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra patties and freeze them for quick meals later.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Salisbury steak, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large bowl
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large bowl: This is essential for mixing the beef and other ingredients thoroughly.
- Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly browned patties.
- Spatula: Great for flipping the patties without breaking them apart.
Ingredients
For the Beef Patties
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- pinch of salt
For the Gravy
- 1 large vidalia onion (diced)
- 4 ounces sliced white mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 1/2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
- 3 cups beef stock
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- kosher salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives
How to Make Salisbury Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large bowl, use your hands to blend together the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, tomato paste, worcestershire sauce, ground mustard, onion powder, pepper, and salt until well combined. Divide this mixture into four equal portions and form each into an oval patty about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat in a cast iron skillet. Add the patties to the pan and cook until browned on one side—this should take about 2–3 minutes. Flip the patties over and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until browned on both sides. Once done, transfer them to a platter to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
Pour off any excess fat from the skillet and return it to heat. Add diced onions to the pan and cook until they become translucent. Then add sliced mushrooms and sauté until softened. Stir in chopped thyme, garlic powder, and flour; cook this mixture for about 1 minute.
Step 4: Create the Gravy
Slowly pour in beef stock while scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Stir in another teaspoon of worcestershire sauce before bringing everything to a boil. Once it begins thickening, reduce heat and mix in butter. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Finish Cooking Patties
Return your beef patties back into the gravy mixture. Let them cook for an additional 5–7 minutes or until they are no longer pink in the center.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives if desired before serving immediately with your choice of sides. Enjoy your homemade Salisbury steak!
How to Serve Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a delicious comfort food that pairs well with many sides. Serving it right can enhance the meal and create a satisfying dining experience.
Classic Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a traditional side that complements the rich mushroom gravy perfectly.
Steamed Green Beans
- Fresh green beans add a pop of color and crunch, balancing the savory flavors of the Salisbury steak.
Roasted Vegetables
- A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables can provide a sweet and savory contrast to the dish.
Rice Pilaf
- Fluffy rice pilaf is a great base to soak up the delicious gravy from your Salisbury steak.
Side Salad
- A light, refreshing salad can help cleanse the palate between bites of the hearty Salisbury steak.
Garlic Bread
- Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful gravy, making each bite even more enjoyable.
How to Perfect Salisbury Steak
To make your Salisbury steak truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips.
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Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef ensures your patties stay juicy without excess grease.
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Don’t skip the breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and keep the patties tender, providing a better texture.
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Cook on medium heat: Cooking at medium heat allows for a nice brown crust while keeping the inside moist.
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Let it rest: Allowing the cooked patties to rest for a few minutes helps retain their juices before serving.
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Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify seasonings according to personal preference for an extra flavor boost.
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak
Pairing Salisbury steak with complementary sides enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice that provides a smooth texture and absorbs gravy beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adding a healthy green option, steamed broccoli offers a nice crunch and vibrant color.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring out natural sugars, contrasting well with savory flavors.
- Butter Noodles: Simple buttered egg noodles make for an easy side that pairs well with rich gravies.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture, creating balance in every bite.
- Coleslaw: A cool coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, cutting through rich flavors effectively.
- Baked Potatoes: Baked potatoes offer versatility; top them with sour cream or chives for added flavor.
- Quinoa Salad: For a healthier option, quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while being light and refreshing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Salisbury Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Using the wrong meat: Opting for fatty ground beef can lead to greasy patties. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option and better texture.
- Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season the beef mixture can result in bland Salisbury Steak. Make sure to add salt, pepper, and other spices for full flavor.
- Overcooking the patties: Cooking the patties too long can make them tough. Aim for a juicy interior by keeping an eye on cooking time.
- Not letting the gravy thicken properly: Rushing the gravy can leave it watery. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Forgetting to scrape the pan: Ignoring the browned bits in the pan means missing out on flavor. Be sure to scrape these up when preparing your gravy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Salisbury Steak in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Salisbury Steak
- Place cooled Salisbury Steak in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Salisbury Steak
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Cook until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury Steak is a dish made from seasoned ground beef shaped into patties, often served with a rich mushroom gravy. It’s a comfort food favorite!
How do I make Salisbury Steak tender?
To make your Salisbury Steak tender, avoid overmixing the beef and be mindful of cooking times. Using lean meat also helps maintain tenderness.
Can I use other meats for Salisbury Steak?
Yes! While traditional recipes use beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of Salisbury Steak.
What sides go well with Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury Steak pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I know when my Salisbury Steak is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Salisbury Steak is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it with different spices or serve it over various sides. Try this comforting classic today!
Salisbury Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Salisbury steak is a nostalgic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. This classic dish features juicy ground beef patties, expertly seasoned and smothered in a rich mushroom gravy, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions. With its hearty flavors and delightful textures, it’s a meal that can be prepared in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete experience that will please everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 4 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 3 cups beef stock
- Seasonings: Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, fresh thyme
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef with panko, diced onion, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and shape into four oval patties.
- Brown patties in a heated cast iron skillet with olive oil for about 6–7 minutes total; transfer to a plate.
- Sauté onions and mushrooms in the same skillet until soft; stir in thyme and garlic.
- Gradually add beef stock while scraping the pan for flavor; thicken the mixture as desired with flour.
- Return patties to the skillet and simmer in the gravy until cooked through.
- Serve hot with chopped parsley or chives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
