Salisbury steak is a beloved comfort food that many people have enjoyed for generations. It gives a taste of homecooked meals and warms the soul. The dish often includes seasoned beef patties cooked in a rich gravy, making it not only delicious but also satisfying. If you’re looking for a hearty dinner that is simple to prepare, this Salisbury Steak and Gravy recipe may be just what you need.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Salisbury steak at home. First, it’s an economical choice. By using ground beef, you can create a filling meal without breaking the bank. Second, making Salisbury steak allows you to control the ingredients. You can adjust the seasonings to fit your tastes or make it healthier by adding more vegetables. Third, this dish is perfect for families. Kids usually love flavorful beef patties covered in tasty gravy. Lastly, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup afterward!
How to Make Salisbury Steak and Gravy
Making Salisbury steak is straightforward and can be done in a few easy steps. Here, we outline the ingredients and directions to help you prepare this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs (adds seasoning and helps bind the patties)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (for a subtle sweetness)
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard (gives a bit of tang)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (deepens the flavor)
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crushed (adds concentrated beef flavor)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the patties)
- 2 cups hot water
- 2 beef bouillon cubes (for a rich, beefy base)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (adds a bit of sweetness and color)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami flavor)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch (to thicken the gravy)
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced into half-moons (adds sweetness and depth)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon butter (for richness)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
Directions
Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, ketchup, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, crushed beef bouillon cube, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Shape the patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into oval patties. Try to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
Brown the patties: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties carefully. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Make the gravy: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until they are translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. If using, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
Combine ingredients for the gravy: Add the hot water, two beef bouillon cubes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch to the skillet. Stir thoroughly until everything is mixed well.
Return the patties to the skillet: Nestle the browned Salisbury steak patties back into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over each patty.
Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and allows the patties to absorb the delicious gravy. Make sure the patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Serve: Once the Salisbury steaks are cooked, serve them hot with generous spoonfuls of the onion and mushroom gravy.
How to Serve Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is best served hot. You can enjoy it on its own, but it pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. The gravy adds a rich flavor that complements these sides beautifully. Consider adding steamed vegetables like green beans or peas to the plate for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a touch of color.
How to Store Salisbury Steak
If you have leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly. Allow the Salisbury steak and gravy to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until it is warm throughout.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the Salisbury steak and gravy. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat.
Tips to Make Salisbury Steak
Use a Good Quality Beef: Choose ground beef with a good fat-to-lean ratio. An 80/20 blend offers great flavor and prevents the patties from becoming too dry.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to combine. Overmixing can result in tough patties.
Season Well: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also try adding your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
Texture: For extra flavor and texture, try adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture.
Mushrooms: If you love mushrooms, do not skip them! They add depth and richness to the gravy. Make sure to cook them until soft for the best flavor.
Variation
While the classic Salisbury steak is well-loved, you can make some variations to suit your preferences.
Meat Alternatives: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Different Gravy: Swap the mushroom gravy for a creamy mushroom sauce or even a barbecue sauce for a unique twist.
Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables to the gravy, such as diced bell peppers or carrots, for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
What can I serve with Salisbury steak?
Salisbury steak is commonly served with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
How do I know when the patties are cooked through?
The internal temperature of the patties should reach 160°F (71°C) to be safe for consumption. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the center of the patties.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make Salisbury steak healthier, use lean ground beef or ground turkey. You can also reduce the amount of ketchup and use low-sodium bouillon cubes to cut back on sodium. Adding more vegetables to the gravy increases the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
By following this guide, you will create a delicious and satisfying Salisbury Steak and Gravy dish that your family and friends will rave about. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
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Salisbury Steak and Gravy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting Salisbury steak recipe featuring seasoned beef patties cooked in a rich gravy, perfect for a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crushed
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups hot water
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, crushed bouillon, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into oval patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add hot water, bouillon cubes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic powder, and cornstarch to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Nestle patties back into the gravy, spooning some over them.
- Simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes until flavors meld and patties reach 160°F (71°C).
- Serve hot with onion and mushroom gravy spooned over the top.
Notes
Salisbury steak is best enjoyed with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: salisbury steak, comfort food, beef patties, gravy
