Salisbury Steak is a classic American comfort food that combines savory seasoned beef patties with a rich, flavorful brown gravy. It’s a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving something filling and satisfying. The best part about Salisbury Steak is that it’s easy to make, affordable, and a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Paired with mashed potatoes or rice, it’s a meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
What Is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury Steak is not actually a steak in the traditional sense. It’s a dish made from ground beef that is seasoned, shaped into oval patties, and then browned before being simmered in a flavorful gravy. It’s often served with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, making it a complete meal in one. The origins of the dish can be traced back to the 19th century, named after Dr. James Salisbury, an American physician who advocated for a diet that included ground beef. Over time, Salisbury Steak evolved into the comforting dish we know today, often served in restaurants and homes across the United States.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this homemade Salisbury Steak recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or cracker crumbs)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (or stock)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salisbury Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat, as it can result in tough patties.
Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions (depending on how large you want your patties) and shape each portion into an oval-shaped patty. Be sure to make them slightly thicker in the center to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the beef patties to the skillet. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are browned and fully cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
Once the patties are browned and cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Leave any remaining juices in the skillet for the next step.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and slightly caramelized.
Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the butter and form a roux.
Gradually add the beef broth to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. You want the gravy to be smooth and rich.
Step 4: Return the Patties to the Skillet
Once the gravy has thickened, return the cooked patties to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows the patties to absorb the flavors of the gravy and ensures they are heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, spooning the gravy and onions over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to complete the meal. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions.
Why Make Salisbury Steak at Home?
Salisbury Steak is an incredibly easy dish to make at home, and it offers so much more flavor and depth than store-bought or frozen alternatives. By making your own gravy and seasoning the beef patties to your liking, you can customize the dish to suit your taste. It’s also a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
Additionally, Salisbury Steak is a great option for meal prep. You can make the patties and gravy ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and quickly heat them up when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a family.
Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak
- Use 80% lean beef: For the best flavor and texture, use ground beef that’s 80% lean. It will have enough fat to keep the patties juicy and flavorful.
- Don’t overmix the beef: When combining the ingredients for the patties, be sure not to overmix the meat, as this can lead to dense, tough patties.
- Make the gravy from scratch: The homemade gravy is what makes this dish so delicious. Avoid using store-bought gravies, which often lack the depth of flavor you get from making your own.
- Customize the gravy: If you like a spicier gravy, add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a sweeter gravy, a splash of balsamic vinegar or brown sugar can add a nice touch.
Conclusion
Salisbury Steak is a classic, hearty comfort meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With juicy, flavorful beef patties smothered in a rich gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a simple and delicious meal, Salisbury Steak is always a great option. Try this recipe for yourself and enjoy a comforting plate of one of the most iconic dishes in American home cooking!
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