Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe
Table of Contents
Growing up, Salisbury steak was a staple in our household. It was a hearty, comforting dish that always made me smile. The tender beef patties smothered in rich gravy over creamy mashed potatoes was the ultimate comfort.
In this recipe, we’ll explore the origins of Salisbury steak. We’ll also share the secrets to making the perfect old-fashioned version. With lean ground beef, a blend of seasonings, and a luscious mushroom-based gravy, you can enjoy this timeless dish at home. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
What is Salisbury Steak: History and Origins
Salisbury steak is a beloved American dish that has been enjoyed for many years. It started during the Civil War era. Dr. James Salisbury, a doctor, created a diet for soldiers using ground beef. He called it “muscle pulp of beef,” believing it was the best food for health.
Dr. James Salisbury’s Contribution
The first Salisbury steak recipe was simple: ground beef and onions. Later, it grew to include breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Now, it’s a hearty dish with a rich mushroom gravy.
Evolution of the Classic Recipe
- During World War I, Salisbury steak became a hit in the U.S. It was a tasty and affordable meal for families.
- Now, it’s seen as a mix between meatloaf and a hamburger, with ground beef at its core.
- The classic mushroom and onion gravy adds to the beef’s savory taste.
Salisbury steak’s charm comes from its comforting, old-fashioned flavors. It’s a favorite for those looking for a satisfying, nostalgic meal. Its journey from a health-focused dish to a salisbury steak history and retro recipes classic is fascinating.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salisbury Steak
To make the perfect Salisbury steak, you need the right ingredients. At the core is lean ground beef, with 80% lean and 20% fat for the best taste and texture. Mix it with breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder to create a tasty beef patty.
For the mushroom gravy, you’ll need beef broth, sliced onions, flour, butter, and more Worcestershire sauce. You can also add mushrooms and a bit of soy sauce for extra flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef | 1 1/2 pounds (80% lean) |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ketchup | 3 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups |
| Sliced Onions | 1 cup |
| Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Mushrooms (optional) | 8 ounces |
| Soy Sauce (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
By choosing and mixing these key salisbury steak ingredients and ground beef recipes, you’re on your way to a delicious Salisbury steak. It’s a classic comfort food that will hit the spot every time.
The Secret to Making Tender Ground Beef Patties
To make the perfect Salisbury steak, focus on the beef patties. A few simple tips can make your patties moist and full of flavor.
Choosing the Right Meat Blend
For tender and juicy Salisbury steak, choose 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef. This mix of lean meat and fat is perfect for flavor and texture. Don’t use too lean meat, as it can make the patties dry and hard.
Proper Seasoning Techniques
Seasoning is key to great-tasting tender beef patties. Start with a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend boosts the ground beef seasoning flavors.
Binding Ingredients Guide
- Breadcrumbs: Add breadcrumbs to keep the patties moist and hold them together.
- Egg: A beaten egg helps bind the mixture, preventing it from falling apart while cooking.
Mix the ingredients well but don’t overdo it. Overmixing can make the patties tough. Let the patties rest for a few minutes before cooking to help them keep their shape.
Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe
Enjoy the cozy taste of Salisbury Steak with this classic recipe. It’s a favorite among families, with tender beef patties in a rich gravy. It’s perfect for a nostalgic meal or to make your grandma’s dish.
Getting the ground beef just right is key. Mix the right fat and lean meat for juicy patties. Add breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices to make them flavorful and hold their shape.
After searing the patties, simmer them in a savory gravy. The gravy has onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. It’s a dish that brings back childhood memories of homestyle cooking and family recipes.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1.5 lbs |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/3 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder) | To Taste |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 2 tsp |
Pair this Salisbury Steak with your favorite sides. Try mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a green salad. It’s a homestyle cooking classic that everyone will love.
“This Salisbury Steak recipe takes me back to my grandma’s kitchen. The smell of gravy and sizzling beef is comforting. It’s a family recipe that always hits the spot.”
Creating Rich and Savory Mushroom Gravy
Take your Salisbury steak to the next level with a delicious mushroom gravy. This sauce is the perfect match for the tender beef, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.
Gravy Troubleshooting Tips
Getting the perfect gravy consistency is an art. But with a few tricks, you’ll make silky smooth mushroom gravy in no time. If it’s too thin, add a bit of flour to thicken it. If it’s too thick, add more beef broth until it’s just right.
Achieving Perfect Consistency
The secret to great mushroom gravy is in the technique. Start by sautéing mushrooms and onions until they’re browned. Then, add flour to make a roux. Slowly add beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Simmer the gravy until it thickens, then season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. With these tips, you’ll make a mushroom gravy that’s perfect with your Salisbury steak. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal.
“The homemade mushroom gravy takes this Salisbury steak recipe to the next level. It’s the perfect way to smother the tender beef patties and turn a classic dish into a true comfort food masterpiece.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a classic salisbury steak at home is easy and delicious. Follow these simple steps for a tasty easy dinner recipe:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Split the beef mixture into 4 parts. Shape each part into an oval patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the beef patties in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they get a nice sear.
- Take the seared patties out of the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the onions over medium heat until they’re soft and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Add flour to the onions and stir to make a roux. Slowly add warm water, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in the beef bouillon granules, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the gravy.
- Put the seared beef patties back in the skillet, nestled in the gravy. Lower the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes. This will cook the patties through and thicken the gravy.
- Turn off the heat and let the salisbury steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
This salisbury steak recipe takes about 35-40 minutes to cook. It’s a quick and easy dinner. Serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for a comforting meal.
| Nutrition Facts | Value Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 362.2 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16.7 g (6%) |
| Protein | 32.4 g (65%) |
| Fat | 17.5 g (27%) |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g (32%) |
| Cholesterol | 97.5 mg (33%) |
| Sodium | 447.4 mg (19%) |
| Potassium | 740 mg (21%) |
| Fiber | 1.2 g (5%) |
| Sugar | 2.8 g (3%) |
Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a classic comfort food. It pairs well with many side dishes. You can choose from traditional favorites or modern options to match its savory flavors.
Traditional Pairings
For a classic Salisbury steak, try traditional sides. Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or white rice are great. They soak up the mushroom gravy, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Modern Accompaniments
Want a modern twist? Try roasted vegetables like green beans or carrots and Brussels sprouts. A fresh salad also works well, adding a crisp touch. For a low-carb choice, go for cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
Choosing the right sides is key to a great meal. Experiment with different options to find your favorite salisbury steak sides and comfort food pairings.
Tips for Making Ahead and Storage
Salisbury steak is a great meal prep option. It’s a classic comfort food that can be made ahead of time. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time and enjoy delicious Salisbury steak whenever you want.
The ground beef patties for Salisbury steak can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This lets the flavors mix and makes the steak tender.
After cooking, you can store the patties in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. This is great for meal prep and leftovers storage. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet with some mushroom gravy or in the microwave until hot.
For longer storage, cooked Salisbury steak patties can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cool the patties completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Move them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To serve, thaw the patties in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Always heat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) before serving to keep food safe.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Uncooked Patties (Refrigerated) | Up to 24 hours |
| Cooked Patties (Refrigerated) | 3-4 days |
| Cooked Patties (Frozen) | Up to 2 months |
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making a tasty Salisbury steak, it’s key to steer clear of common mistakes. One big error is using lean ground beef, which can make the patties dry and crumbly. For a moist and tasty steak, choose a ground beef with more fat, like 85% lean.
Another common mistake is overcooking the patties. Don’t let them get too brown or overcooked. This can make the steak tough and dry. Cook them until they’re just done, then let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices spread evenly in the meat.
Lastly, not seasoning the steak mixture well can make the dish taste bland. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you mix the patties. Also, let the gravy simmer until it’s the right consistency. This makes the gravy rich and tasty, perfect with your Salisbury steak.
FAQ
What is Salisbury steak?
Salisbury steak is a comfort food dish. It’s made with seasoned ground beef patties and rich gravy. It’s often served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Who created Salisbury steak?
Dr. James Salisbury created it during the Civil War. He believed in a diet rich in ground beef, calling it “muscle pulp of beef.”
What are the key ingredients for Salisbury steak?
Key ingredients include lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, and egg. You’ll also need ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For the gravy, use beef broth, sliced onions, flour, butter, and more Worcestershire sauce.
What is the secret to making tender Salisbury steak patties?
Use 85% lean ground beef or a beef-pork mix for tender patties. Season well, use breadcrumbs and egg for binding, and avoid overmixing.
How do you make the perfect Salisbury steak recipe?
Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Form into patties. Brown them in a skillet. Then, make the gravy by sautéing onions, adding flour, and whisking in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer the patties in the gravy until they’re cooked through.
How do you make a rich and savory mushroom gravy for Salisbury steak?
Sauté sliced mushrooms and onions before adding flour and broth. Whisk in flour slowly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens to your liking.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Salisbury steak?
Traditional sides are mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Modern options include roasted vegetables, garlic green beans, or a crisp salad. Other favorites are buttered corn, steamed broccoli, or glazed carrots.
Can Salisbury steak be made ahead and stored?
Yes, you can prepare patties ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Cooked patties can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2 months.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when making Salisbury steak?
Avoid using lean ground beef for dry patties. Don’t overcook the patties. Season well and let the gravy simmer until thick. Use 85% lean beef, cook just until done, season to taste, and simmer the gravy until it’s right.