Salisbury Steak Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Dish

Salisbury steak is a timeless classic, known for its tender beef patties and rich mushroom gravy. While many associate it with 1950s TV dinners, homemade Salisbury steak is far more flavorful and satisfying. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this dish from scratch and discover some helpful variations, tips, and perfect sides.

What is Salisbury Steak?

Salisbury steak is essentially seasoned ground beef formed into patties and cooked in a flavorful gravy. Unlike hamburgers, which are served on buns, Salisbury steak is typically served with sides like mashed potatoes or vegetables. The dish was originally named after Dr. James Henry Salisbury, who developed it as a way to provide nutritious meals to soldiers during the Civil War.

For those who enjoy combining their main course with something sweet, consider pairing this savory dish with a rich dessert like fudgy brownies, adding a comforting end to your meal.

Key Ingredients for Salisbury Steak

For the Patties:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp kosher salt

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef stock
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 6 oz sliced mushrooms
• Salt and pepper to taste

Consider enhancing the meal with a side of creamy potato casserole, which offers a perfect pairing for the rich flavors of Salisbury steak.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Making the Patties

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, mustard, oregano, and salt.
2. Shape the mixture into four oval patties, about ¾ inch thick.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the patties for about 3 minutes per side, then set aside.

Preparing the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour, whisking until smooth.
3. Gradually pour in the beef stock while continuing to whisk to avoid lumps.
4. Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder.
5. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and let the gravy simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.

Cooking and Serving

1. Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
2. Cover the pan and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
3. Serve your Salisbury steak over mashed potatoes or rice, generously drizzled with the savory mushroom gravy.

For another comforting meal idea, check out this squash casserole recipe, a great side dish that pairs well with beef-based entrees.

Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Recipe

• Use a binder: The egg and breadcrumbs help the patties stay intact while cooking.
• Brown first: Browning the patties adds extra flavor and helps the meat retain its juices.
• Flavor variations: Add sautéed onions to the gravy for a deeper, more robust taste.

Recipe Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust the seasonings to suit the new protein.
• Meatball Version: Form the patties into smaller meatballs and cook them the same way for a different twist on the traditional recipe. These meatballs can even be frozen for a quick dinner option.
• Onion Gravy: Sauté onions along with the mushrooms to create an onion-rich gravy.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury steak pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes:

• Mashed potatoes for a classic pairing
• Rice pilaf for a lighter option
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots
• Creamy cornbread casserole for a hearty side dish

For dessert, consider serving this dish alongside something light and fruity, like the apple slump recipe, which offers a cozy, fall-inspired ending to your meal.

FAQs

Can Salisbury steak be made with turkey?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef. Simply use chicken stock for the gravy and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

How do I thicken the gravy?
The key to thickening the gravy is using flour. Stir it into the drippings before adding the stock, whisking until no lumps remain.

Can Salisbury steak be frozen?
Yes! You can freeze both uncooked and cooked patties along with the gravy. For uncooked patties, freeze them individually on a lined baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Thaw overnight before cooking. For cooked patties, freeze them in the gravy to prevent drying out.

What are the best side dishes for Salisbury steak?
The best sides include mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables. For something heartier, try a creamy chicken cordon bleu casserole for an indulgent and comforting pairing.

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This recipe offers a modern twist on an old favorite, perfect for a hearty family meal or a comforting weeknight dinner. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the many variations, Salisbury steak is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.