Salisbury steak is a classic American comfort food dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. It’s a simple yet satisfying blend of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, often served with gravy and mashed potatoes. While its origins are a bit murky, it’s believed to have been popularized in the early 20th century, perhaps named after Dr. Robert Salisbury, a 19th-century physician who promoted a meat-based diet.
Why We Love Salisbury Steak
Ease of Preparation: Salisbury steak is incredibly easy to make, even for novice cooks.
Versatility: It can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.
Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, gravy, and sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables is undeniably comforting.
Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is generally an affordable protein source, making Salisbury steak an economical meal option.
Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salisbury Steaks:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
For the Gravy:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup water
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salisbury Steaks:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix well with your hands until thoroughly combined.
Add the beaten egg and mix again until just incorporated.
Don’t overmix, or the steaks will become tough.
Shape the mixture into four equal-sized patties.
2. Cook the Steaks:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add a little oil to the skillet.
Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Gravy:
Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and fragrant.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth and water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened.
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve:
Return the cooked Salisbury steaks to the skillet with the gravy.
Simmer for a few minutes to allow the steaks to reheat and absorb some of the gravy.
Serve the Salisbury steaks hot with the gravy spooned over them.
Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips and Variations
Add-ins: Get creative with your seasonings! Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor, or some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Veggie Boost: Sneak some extra vegetables into your Salisbury steaks by adding finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or carrots to the meat mixture.
Make it Hearty: Add some cooked rice or quinoa to the meat mixture for a more substantial meal.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
Slow Cooker Option: For an even easier meal, you can cook the Salisbury steaks in the slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
Side Dish Suggestions
Mashed Potatoes: A classic and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with Salisbury steak.
Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, carrots, or a medley of your favorites.
Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier option, try roasting potatoes with herbs and spices.
Rice Pilaf: A flavorful and easy-to-make side dish.
Green Salad: A refreshing and healthy accompaniment to your meal.
FAQs
Can I freeze Salisbury steak?
Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked Salisbury steaks. For best results, freeze them individually in airtight containers or freezer bags.
How long does cooked Salisbury steak last in the refrigerator?
Cooked Salisbury steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What is the difference between Salisbury steak and hamburger steak?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, Salisbury steak typically refers to the specific preparation with breadcrumbs and seasonings, while hamburger steak is a more general term for a beef patty.
Conclusion
Salisbury steak is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can enjoy this classic comfort food in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and savor the delicious flavors of this timeless recipe.
