Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe
Table of Contents
The smell of sizzling beef and savory gravy brings back childhood memories. My mom’s homemade Salisbury steak was always on our dinner table. It was a comforting dish that filled both my body and soul.
The tender, juicy patties were smothered in a rich, mushroom-infused gravy. They were served with creamy mashed potatoes. This is the true essence of old-fashioned comfort food.
If you’re looking for a nostalgic dish or a classic to share with your family, this old fashioned Salisbury steak recipe is perfect. It has a perfect mix of savory flavors and hearty texture. It’s the ultimate comfort food recipe that will make you want more.
So, let’s explore how to make the perfect ground beef patties. They will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
What Makes Salisbury Steak a Classic Comfort Food
Salisbury steak is a true American classic. It’s a favorite from the old days that people still love today. It started in the late 1800s, named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, who believed in a lean beef diet.
Unlike regular burgers, Salisbury steak has extra seasonings and binders like breadcrumbs. This makes it taste and feel different.
Origin and History of the Dish
Salisbury steak became popular during the Civil War and World War I. It was a cheap and easy way to feed many people. It became a favorite in American diners, served with a tasty mushroom and onion gravy.
Now, it’s seen as a classic comfort food. People love its hearty, savory taste and satisfying texture.
Difference from Regular Hamburger Steak
Salisbury steak and regular hamburger steak are not the same. Salisbury steak is made with ground beef mixed with spices and binders like breadcrumbs. This makes a more flavorful and cohesive patty.
Also, Salisbury steak comes with a rich gravy. Hamburger steak usually doesn’t.
The mix of tender beef and savory gravy makes Salisbury steak special. It’s a true classic salisbury steak and a favorite retro diner dish. Its lasting popularity shows how much people love this comforting meal.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salisbury Steak
To make the ultimate Salisbury steak, you need the right mix of ingredients. Start with high-quality ground beef. Look for an 80/20 or 85/15 ratio of lean to fat for the best taste and texture.
You’ll also need breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and a beaten egg. These help the patty stay together. Don’t forget ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder for flavor. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning.
For the onion Salisbury steak gravy, you’ll need beef broth, sliced onions, flour, butter, and more Worcestershire sauce. Some recipes add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 80% lean, 20% fat |
| Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large, beaten |
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups |
| Onions, sliced | 1 cup |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make the perfect Salisbury steak. It comes with a rich, flavorful gravy. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your liking for the best taste.
Preparing the Perfect Meat Mixture
To make the classic Salisbury steak, start with the right ground beef. Choose 85% lean ground chuck for tender and juicy patties. This mix of fat and lean meat keeps the ground beef patties moist and flavorful.
Adding a few simple binders helps the patties stick together. Breadcrumbs and a beaten egg are the binders. Onion and garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried parsley add great flavor. Some recipes also include Worcestershire powder for an extra savory taste without extra liquid.
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
For the best Salisbury steak, use 85% lean ground beef. This mix of fat and lean meat makes the patties tender and juicy, even when fully cooked.
Adding Proper Binding Ingredients
- Breadcrumbs help hold the patties together
- Beaten egg acts as a natural binder
Seasoning Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Onion and garlic powder for aromatic notes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried parsley for a subtle herbal touch
- Optional Worcestershire powder for added savory depth
After mixing the meat, let the patties rest for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This step helps the binders set. It ensures your Salisbury steak stays together while searing or baking.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef (85% lean) | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Egg, beaten | 1 |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Parsley | 2 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire Powder (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe
Try the classic old fashioned Salisbury steak recipe. It’s a comfort food with seasoned ground beef patties in a rich mushroom gravy. It’s the ultimate homemade treat!
Ingredients for Salisbury Steak Patties
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Preparing the Patties
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, and ketchup well.
- Make 4-6 oval patties from the mixture, as you like.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes each side, until browned.
Mushroom Gravy
To make the mushroom gravy, do this:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add 2 cups of beef broth and whisk, getting all the browned bits.
- Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Place the old fashioned Salisbury steak patties in the mushroom gravy. Enjoy this comfort food recipe with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for making ahead. Bon Appétit!
Creating Rich and Savory Mushroom Gravy
The secret to a mouthwatering Salisbury steak is the mushroom gravy. This topping makes the dish even better, covering the beef in a rich sauce. Start by sautéing fresh mushrooms in butter until they’re golden.
Then, mix in flour to make a roux. This thickens the gravy as it cooks.
Gravy Consistency Tips
Getting the gravy’s consistency right is important. Slowly add beef broth, whisking all the time to avoid lumps. Let it simmer, stirring now and then, until it’s the right thickness.
If it’s too thin, make a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with cold water, then add it to the gravy.
Seasoning Balance Guide
Seasoning is key for a great mushroom gravy. Start with a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a bit of soy sauce. They add depth and umami flavor.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep adjusting as it simmers. The goal is to get a savory, mushroom flavor.
With the right techniques, you’ll get a rich, indulgent mushroom gravy. It’s perfect with Salisbury steak. Serve it to your family or guests, and they’ll love it.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making the perfect old-fashioned Salisbury steak is simple. Just a few steps can turn this easy dinner idea and comfort food recipe into a delicious meal. Here’s how to cook it:
- Begin by making the Salisbury steak patties. Mix the ground beef, milk, and instant mashed potato flakes in a bowl. Don’t overmix to avoid tough patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side. They should be browned and cooked to 160°F inside.
- Take the patties out of the skillet and set them aside. Cook the sliced onions and mushrooms in butter or oil until they’re soft and smell good.
- Add flour to the onion-mushroom mix, stirring constantly to make a roux. Then, slowly add beef broth, scraping the pan’s bottom.
- Season with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
- Put the patties back in the skillet with the gravy. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes more. This ensures the patties are fully cooked and the gravy is just right.
- Turn off the heat and let the Salisbury steak rest for a few minutes. This makes it juicy and flavorful.
Follow these steps for a tasty comfort food recipe that’s easy to make. Serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 362.2 kcal |
| Protein | 32.4 g |
| Preparation Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
“The key to a perfect Salisbury steak is in the balance of flavors and textures. The juicy, well-seasoned beef patty paired with the rich, savory gravy is a classic comfort food combination that never disappoints.”
Best Side Dish Pairings
When you serve an old-fashioned Salisbury steak, the right sides can make it even better. Classic choices like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, and tender green beans are perfect. They match the savory taste of the steak.
For something new, try the steak with egg noodles or on a crusty bread slice. You can also make sliders with the steak on mini brioche buns. For a lighter choice, pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. And, sweet potatoes are a tasty side that balances the dish’s richness.
| Traditional Accompaniments | Modern Serving Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Creamy mashed potatoes Buttery corn Tender green beans | Served over egg noodles Open-faced sandwich on crusty bread Sliders on mini brioche buns |
No matter how you serve it, this comfort food recipe is a hit. It’s easy to make and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
To keep your Salisbury steak fresh and tasty, follow these storage and reheating tips. You can store uncooked patties in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Once cooked, they can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days or be frozen for 2 months.
When reheating frozen steaks, thaw them first in the fridge or microwave. Then, warm them in a skillet with mushroom gravy or in the microwave until hot. This way, your Salisbury steak stays delicious, just like when it was first made.
For the best Salisbury steak experience, store it right and reheat it gently. This keeps the patties tender and the gravy rich. By doing this, you can enjoy this American classic whenever you want.
FAQ
What is Salisbury steak?
Salisbury steak is a comfort food dish. It’s made with seasoned ground beef patties. These are simmered in a rich gravy, often with mushrooms and onions.
Where did Salisbury steak originate?
It was named after Dr. James H. Salisbury. He was an American physician who promoted lean beef in the late 19th century. The dish became popular in American diners and is now a classic comfort food.
How is Salisbury steak different from a regular hamburger patty?
Salisbury steak has extra seasonings and binders. Ingredients like breadcrumbs or flour help hold the patties together. This makes the texture richer and more flavorful.
What are the key ingredients in Salisbury steak?
Key ingredients include ground beef, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, and egg. Ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are also used. The gravy has beef broth, sliced onions, flour, butter, and Worcestershire sauce. Some recipes add mushrooms.
How do you prepare the perfect Salisbury steak meat mixture?
Use 85% lean ground beef for juicy patties. Breadcrumbs and egg help bind the patties. Season with onion and garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Let the patties rest for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
How do you make the rich mushroom gravy for Salisbury steak?
Sauté chopped mushrooms in butter until golden brown. Make a roux with flour, then whisk in beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened, adjusting with a cornstarch slurry if needed.
What are the step-by-step instructions for cooking Salisbury steak?
Cook the patties in a skillet for 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and sauté onions in the same pan. Make a roux with flour, then whisk in beef broth and seasonings. Return the patties, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cooked and the gravy thickens.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Salisbury steak?
Traditional sides include creamy mashed potatoes, corn, and green beans. Modern options are over egg noodles, as open-faced sandwiches, or sliders. For a lighter choice, pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
How do you store and reheat Salisbury steak?
Store uncooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cooked patties can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for 2 months. Thaw frozen patties in the fridge or microwave, then reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C).
