Salisbury steak: the name itself sounds like a cozy, comforting meal you’d eagerly anticipate at the end of a long day. But what exactly is this classic dish? Well, think of it as the sophisticated cousin of the humble hamburger. It’s hearty, savory, and downright delicious. If you’re ready to elevate your dinner game, let’s dive into crafting the perfect Salisbury steak together.
Salisbury steak has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, beloved for its simplicity and rich flavor profile. Essentially, it’s seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a savory gravy, often served alongside mashed potatoes or buttery noodles. But don’t let its simplicity fool you—this dish packs a punch when it comes to taste.
Basics of Salisbury Steak
Before we embark on our culinary journey, let’s break down the basics of Salisbury steak. Traditionally, it consists of ground beef mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, and various seasonings, shaped into oval patties. These patties are then pan-fried until golden brown and cooked through, then served with a luscious gravy.
Choosing the Ingredients
The key to a stellar Salisbury steak lies in the quality of its ingredients. When selecting your ground beef, opt for a lean blend—around 85% lean, 15% fat works beautifully. This ensures a juicy patty without excess grease. As for breadcrumbs, plain or seasoned varieties both work well, depending on your flavor preference.
Additional Ingredients
While the base ingredients for Salisbury steak are pretty straightforward, there’s room to get creative. Consider adding minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor, or Worcestershire sauce for a hint of umami richness. And don’t forget the onions—they add sweetness and depth to both the patties and the gravy.
Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Preparing the Patties
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until well combined. Then, divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into oval patties.
Making the Gravy
In the same skillet used to cook the patties, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle flour into the skillet and whisk continuously until it forms a smooth paste, known as a roux. Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking constantly, then add Worcestershire sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking the Salisbury Steak
Once the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, carefully return the cooked patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Allow them to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Variations
While the classic Salisbury steak is undeniably delicious, there are endless variations to explore!
Mushroom Gravy Option
For a gourmet twist, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown, then add them to the gravy along with a splash of white wine. The earthy richness of the mushrooms adds depth to the dish that’s simply irresistible.
Onion Gravy Twist
Caramelize thinly sliced onions in the skillet before preparing the gravy for a sweeter, more caramelized flavor profile. The natural sweetness of the onions pairs beautifully with the savory beef patties.
Cheese-Topped Delight
For the ultimate indulgence, top each Salisbury steak patty with a slice of your favorite cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. Let it melt and ooze over the patties, creating a gooey, cheesy masterpiece.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the ground beef with other ingredients, handle it gently to avoid compacting the meat, which can result in tough patties.
- Let the Patties Rest: Allow the cooked patties to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in their juices and ensure maximum flavor.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the gravy as it simmers and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t be afraid to customize it to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Salisbury steak is a timeless classic that’s as delicious as it is comforting. With a few simple ingredients and some culinary know-how, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. So next time you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
How do I know when the Salisbury steak is cooked?
The Salisbury steak is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Can I freeze Salisbury steak?
Yes, you can freeze Salisbury steak for future meals. Allow the cooked patties to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What sides go well with Salisbury steak?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables are perfect accompaniments to Salisbury steak. They soak up the savory gravy and complement the richness of the dish.
Can I use turkey instead of beef for Salisbury steak?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey tends to cook faster than beef.
How can I make Salisbury steak gluten-free?
To make Salisbury steak gluten-free, simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the traditional variety. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients, such as Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free.
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Easy Salisbury Steak Recipe
Ingredients
For the Salisbury Steak:
- 1 lb ground beef, 90% lean
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp ketchup
- 1 ½ tsp milk, (whole milk or any kind)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp olive oil, to sautee
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz brown mushrooms, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cup beef broth, + 1/2 cup water
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp ketchup
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl combine all of the ingredients for the beef patties (except the oil). Mix until well incorporated and shape into 4 oval or round patties flattening the center for even thickness throughout.
- Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a non-stick pan, once hot, add patties to the skillet and cook until patties are golden brown on both sides and fully cooked. Remove the patties from the skillet and cover to keep warm.
- Sauté ½ onion (you can also slice onion into thin slices, whatever your personal preference is) in the same skillet. Once the onion starts to become tender, add the garlic and butter and mix.
- Add the mushrooms and sauté until browned, mixing frequently. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together all of the remaining gravy ingredients: 2 Tbsp flour, 1 1/2 cups broth, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire, 1/2 tsp dijon, 2 tsp ketchup, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp pepper. Pour into the mushrooms and cook until the gravy thickens.
- Add the patties back to the pan and completely cover with the gravy and mushrooms and cook just until patties are heated through.
Notes
Course: Main CourseCuisine: American
Keyword: salisbury steak, salisbury steak recipe
Skill Level: Easy/Medium
Cost to Make: $$
Calories: 324