Salisbury Steak

This Salisbury Steak recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the flavors of classic American cuisine right to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy weeknight meal. The standout feature of this Poor Man’s Salisbury Steak is its rich onion gravy, which elevates the simple ingredients into a satisfying feast. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a homemade meal that’s both hearty and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The savory onion gravy complements the ground beef beautifully, creating a comforting taste experience.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this classic dish, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables.
• Affordable Meal: Using ground beef and pantry staples keeps this dish budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Salisbury Steak, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the steak and helps create that rich gravy.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring your patties are flavorful.

Ingredients

This Poor Man’s Salisbury Steak is smothered in onion gravy and is ready in about 30 minutes!

For the Steak Patties

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup potato chips (smashed)
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• salt and pepper

For the Gravy

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups beef broth (more if needed for thinning)
• 4 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• salt and pepper

How to Make Salisbury Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, smashed potato chips, dry mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until fully combined but do not overmix to keep the patties tender.
3. Shape the mixture into four equal patties.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

1. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. In the same skillet, add unsalted butter and sliced onions; sauté until onions are translucent.
2. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; stir well.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry; add it to the gravy to thicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked patties to the skillet with gravy; let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
2. Serve warm over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade Salisbury Steak!

How to Serve Salisbury Steak

Salisbury steak is a comforting dish, perfect for family dinners. It pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Classic Pairings

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect canvas for the savory onion gravy.
• Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots provide a fresh contrast to the hearty steak.
• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs the flavorful gravy, making each bite delightful.

Creative Twists

• Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread can help mop up any leftover gravy on your plate.
• Salad – A simple green salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the meal.
• Coleslaw – The tanginess of coleslaw complements the richness of Salisbury steak nicely.

How to Perfect Salisbury Steak

To really master Salisbury steak, keep these tips in mind. They will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh ground beef and produce enhance flavor and texture.
• Season Generously – Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they bring out the best in your meat.
• Cook Evenly – Ensure even cooking by forming uniform patties; this helps them cook through at the same rate.
• Let it Rest – After cooking, let your patties rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for a juicier steak.
• Thicken Gravy Properly – Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to hot gravy to avoid lumps.

Best Side Dishes for Salisbury Steak

Choosing the right side dishes can make your Salisbury steak meal even better. Here are some delicious options that pair well with this classic dish.

1. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements of the steak.
3. Baked Potatoes – Easy to prepare, baked potatoes can be topped with butter, sour cream, or cheese.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a delightful bitterness that contrasts nicely with the rich gravy.
5. Creamed Spinach – This creamy side is a classic choice that adds richness and color to your plate.
6. Buttered Noodles – Simple yet satisfying, buttered noodles offer a comforting base for extra gravy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Salisbury Steak from good to great. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Overworking the meat: Mixing the ground beef too much can lead to tough steaks. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper means bland flavors. Season the meat mixture and gravy for a more delicious dish.
• Using low-quality beef broth: A poor broth will affect the gravy’s taste. Always opt for a good quality beef broth for rich flavor.
• Not letting the gravy thicken: Rushing this step can lead to watery sauce. Allow time for the gravy to simmer after adding cornstarch.
• Skipping side dishes: Serving Salisbury Steak alone can make it less satisfying. Pair it with mashed potatoes or vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the steak to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Salisbury Steak

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Salisbury Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil, reheating for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about cooking and serving Salisbury Steak.

What is Salisbury Steak?

Salisbury Steak is a dish made from ground beef formed into patties, often served with gravy. It’s hearty and perfect for dinner.

Can I use other meats for Salisbury Steak?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted if you’re looking for a lighter option while still enjoying similar flavors.

How do I make Salisbury Steak gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, replace potato chips with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

What sides go well with Salisbury Steak?

Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice complement Salisbury Steak nicely, creating a balanced meal.

Can I prepare Salisbury Steak ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Poor Man’s Salisbury Steak is not only quick and easy but also deliciously satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various sides or toppings. Try this recipe today and impress your family with a comforting classic that’s perfect for any night of the week!