Salisbury Steak with Gravy

This Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a true comfort food classic, with juicy beef patties smothered in a rich, savory gravy. The flavors meld together to create the perfect balance of tenderness and richness, making it an ideal dinner choice for cozy nights or special occasions.

Serve it with mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables, and you have a well-rounded meal that the whole family will love. This recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy your craving for something hearty and comforting.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tablespoon flour

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 4 oval patties.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through. Remove patties from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.

4. In a small bowl, mix the flour and butter together to form a paste (roux). Add the roux to the simmering broth and whisk until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

5. Return the patties to the skillet, spoon some gravy over them, and let them simmer in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Salisbury Steak with Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time. Known for its tender beef patties and savory gravy, this meal evokes feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a weeknight meal, or a special occasion, Salisbury Steak with Gravy brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

But where did this dish come from, and why has it remained so popular? In this article, we’ll explore the history behind Salisbury Steak, the best ways to prepare it, variations you can try, and helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Plus, we’ll share some delicious serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

The History of Salisbury Steak

Salisbury Steak has a fascinating origin story, rooted in 19th-century American cuisine. The dish was named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, an American physician who promoted a diet consisting mainly of minced beef. Dr. Salisbury believed that a diet of lean meat, particularly beef, could help treat various ailments and improve digestion. His theories gained popularity, and the beef patty known as Salisbury Steak was born.

Initially, the dish was quite simple ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper, formed into a patty, and often served with gravy. Over time, the recipe evolved, with more ingredients being added to the patties, such as onions, breadcrumbs, and egg, and the gravy becoming richer and more flavorful.

By the early 20th century, Salisbury Steak became a staple in American households, particularly during the Great Depression when affordable meals were necessary. It was featured in cookbooks, newspapers, and even served in school cafeterias as a cheap yet hearty meal. As the years passed, Salisbury Steak remained a comfort food favorite, often appearing on dinner tables as an easy-to-make dish that could feed a crowd.

Why Salisbury Steak with Gravy Is So Loved

Salisbury Steak with Gravy is the epitome of comfort food. The tender beef patties are rich and flavorful, and the gravy adds a velvety smoothness that elevates the entire dish. It’s the perfect balance of hearty, savory goodness, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The beef patties themselves can be made with minimal ingredients, which means it’s a simple dish that doesn’t require hours of preparation.

The gravy is arguably the star of the show, providing an extra layer of flavor that enhances the dish. Whether it’s a rich beef gravy or a lighter mushroom-based version, the sauce is what makes Salisbury Steak so satisfying. The gravy ties the dish together, making it the ideal complement to mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Additionally, Salisbury Steak is versatile. While the traditional recipe calls for ground beef, it can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even experiment with adding different herbs and spices to the patties to personalize the dish.

Variations of Salisbury Steak with Gravy

While the classic Salisbury Steak with Gravy recipe remains popular, there are several variations you can try to put a unique spin on the dish. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. Mushroom Salisbury Steak: One of the most common variations is adding mushrooms to the gravy. The earthiness of mushrooms pairs perfectly with the savory beef, adding depth to the dish. Simply sauté sliced mushrooms in butter and incorporate them into the gravy for added texture and flavor.

2. Cheese-Stuffed Salisbury Steaks: If you want to make your Salisbury Steak extra indulgent, try stuffing the patties with cheese. Mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese works beautifully. The melted cheese inside the patties creates a gooey, savory center that adds richness to every bite.

3. Spicy Salisbury Steak: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the gravy or the patties. This will give your Salisbury Steak a spicy kick that adds complexity to the dish.

4. Vegetarian Salisbury Steak: If you’re looking for a meat-free alternative, you can make Salisbury Steaks with plant-based ingredients. Use a combination of lentils, beans, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs to form the patties. You can also create a vegetarian gravy using vegetable broth and thickened with a roux.

5. Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy: For a more traditional approach, onion gravy adds sweetness and flavor that complements the savory beef patties. You can caramelize the onions to create a deeper flavor profile for the gravy, making the dish even more hearty.

Serving Suggestions

Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides. The richness of the gravy and the savory beef patties makes it a great dish to serve with starchy sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Here are a few serving ideas:

1. Mashed Potatoes: One of the most classic pairings, mashed potatoes are the perfect vessel for soaking up the delicious gravy. Creamy mashed potatoes with butter, cream, and a pinch of salt will complement the richness of the Salisbury Steak beautifully.

2. Steamed Vegetables: A light side dish like steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the Salisbury Steak. The crispness of the vegetables balances out the heaviness of the meat and gravy.

3. Rice or Pilaf: For a simple and filling side, serve your Salisbury Steak with a side of rice or rice pilaf. The rice soaks up the savory gravy and complements the tender beef patties.

4. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: If you prefer a more textured side, roasted potatoes with herbs and olive oil are a great option. The crispy edges of the potatoes provide a nice contrast to the tender beef.

5. Dinner Rolls or Biscuits: Freshly baked rolls or biscuits are perfect for dipping into the gravy. Their soft, fluffy texture makes them an excellent addition to this meal.

Tips for Making Perfect Salisbury Steak with Gravy

1. Don’t Overmix the Meat: When making the beef patties, avoid overmixing the meat. Overworking the ground beef can lead to tough patties. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients and form the patties.

2. Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef (such as 90% lean) to reduce the fat content. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

3. Adjust the Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add a little more flour to the roux. For a thinner gravy, you can adjust by adding more beef broth. Make sure to whisk constantly to prevent lumps.

4. Make Ahead: Salisbury Steak is a great dish to make ahead. You can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for a day or two before cooking. You can also make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

5. Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Browning the patties before simmering them in the gravy creates a deeper flavor. The caramelized exterior of the beef adds a savory richness to the dish that cannot be replicated by simply cooking the patties in the gravy.

Conclusion:

Salisbury Steak with Gravy is a timeless dish that continues to be a favorite in kitchens across the world. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it for a special occasion, this dish offers comfort, flavor, and versatility. By following a few simple tips and experimenting with variations, you can make this classic meal your own. From the juicy beef patties to the rich, velvety gravy, Salisbury Steak remains a go-to meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

Enjoy it with your favorite sides and share it with loved ones to make lasting memories around the dinner table.