Salisbury Steak: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Few dishes bring the warmth and nostalgia of comfort food quite like Salisbury Steak. Whether it’s the rich, savory gravy or the tender, flavorful patties, this dish is a timeless classic. Invented by Dr. James Salisbury in the 19th century, this meal was initially introduced as a healthy beef dish. Today, it has evolved into a family favorite, often paired with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

This recipe for Salisbury Steak is a perfect blend of hearty flavors and simplicity, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings. Let’s dive into how you can create this crowd-pleaser at home.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Classic Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy family dinners or cold nights.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes.
3. Customizable: Easily adapted for dietary needs or preferences.
4. Rich and Flavorful: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and gravy is irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Steaks:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients and Substitutions

Ground Beef

• Why It’s Essential: Provides a hearty base for the steaks.
• Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Breadcrumbs

• Why It’s Essential: Helps bind the patties and keeps them tender.
• Substitutions: Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Mushrooms

• Why It’s Essential: Adds umami and depth to the gravy.
• Substitutions: Skip if you’re not a fan or replace with diced bell peppers.

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

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties

Mixing the ingredients just until combined is key to tender patties. Overmixing can make them dense.

Step 2: Sear the Patties

Browning the patties creates a delicious crust and adds flavor to the skillet, which enhances the gravy.

Step 3: Build the Gravy

Making a roux with butter and flour ensures a silky-smooth sauce. Gradually whisk in the broth to prevent lumps.

Step 4: Simmer for Perfection

Cooking the steaks in the gravy allows them to soak up the flavors while finishing cooking.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Don’t Skip the Browning: Searing the patties locks in flavor and creates a base for the gravy.
2. Control the Gravy Consistency: Add more broth if it gets too thick, or simmer longer for a thicker sauce.
3. Season to Taste: Adjust salt and pepper after the gravy has simmered to perfection.

Variations and Customizations

1. Lighter Option: Use ground chicken or turkey and low-sodium broth.
2. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for heat.
3. Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef patties with plant-based alternatives.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked patties and gravy separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury Steak pairs beautifully with:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic side to soak up the gravy.
• Buttered Egg Noodles: For a comforting, carb-filled pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add color and nutrients to the plate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Salisbury Steak ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Cook the patties and gravy, then store them separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

Q: How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

A: Ensure the mixture is well-combined, and chill the patties for 10 minutes before cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Related Recipes

1. Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy: Another hearty comfort food option.
2. Swedish Meatballs: Tender meatballs in creamy sauce.
3. Beef Stroganoff: A rich and creamy pasta dish.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef patties with a rich, flavorful gravy. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes or noodles, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.

So why wait? Bring a taste of nostalgia to your table tonight with this easy and delicious recipe. Enjoy!

Classic Italian Meatballs

Salisbury Steak

A hearty dish featuring tender beef patties smothered in rich onion and mushroom gravy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Steaks:

• 1 po ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

  In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.

  Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing can make the patties tough.

  Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into oval patties.
• Step 2: Cook the Steaks

  Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil or butter.

  Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they’ll finish cooking in the gravy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• Step 3: Make the Gravy

  In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the sliced onion and mushrooms until softened, about 5 minutes.

  Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

  Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
• Step 4: Simmer and Serve

  Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens and the steaks are cooked through.

  Serve hot, smothered in gravy, with your favorite sides.

Notes

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• For a gluten-free version, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Keyword Salisbury Steak