Salisbury Steak Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food Made Easy
The Salisbury steak, a comforting and flavorful dish, is a timeless classic that continues to be a family favorite. This recipe simplifies the process, making it achievable for even novice cooks while retaining that rich, savory taste. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe will guide you to delicious success.
What is a Salisbury Steak?
A Salisbury steak is essentially a hamburger steak, often pan-fried or baked, and typically served with a mushroom gravy. It's a versatile dish, adaptable to various dietary preferences and readily customized to your taste. Our recipe focuses on simplicity and achieving maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Salisbury Steak:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Preparing the Salisbury Steak:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the steak tough.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into four patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned. For well-done, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Making the Delicious Mushroom Gravy:
- Sauté Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add more olive oil or butter if needed. Sauté the sliced mushrooms until softened and lightly browned.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Your Masterpiece:
Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, smothered in the rich mushroom gravy. Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad are excellent accompaniments.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Flavor: Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your Salisbury steak. Garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add exciting dimensions.
- Cheese Please: Incorporate shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the meat mixture for extra flavor and richness.
- Make it Healthier: Use leaner ground beef and reduce the amount of bread crumbs for a healthier version.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, combine the meat mixture and bake it in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours.
This Salisbury steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple preparation and customizable nature make it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!