This Easy Classic Salisbury Steak is a hearty dish sure to please everyone at the dinner table. It features juicy beef patties smothered in a rich, savory gravy!
Who doesn’t love comfort food? I like serving mine over mashed potatoes. Just remember to have extra napkins handy for all that tasty sauce! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken. Just note that these may result in a slightly drier texture.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs provide great binding and texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers instead.
Milk: Whole milk is my go-to, but you can use any milk you prefer. Almond milk or other non-dairy milk options work just fine if you’re lactose intolerant.
Onions: Onions add sweetness and depth. If you want a milder flavor, try using green onions or shallots. You can even skip the onions entirely if needed.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Thick Gravy?
Making gravy can be tricky, but here’s a straightforward approach to ensure it’s thick and smooth. Start by cooking your onions until soft to really bring out their flavor.
- After adding flour, stir it for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw taste. This step is key for a tasty gravy!
- When adding the beef broth, do it gradually while stirring continuously. This keeps your gravy lump-free.
- Let it simmer to thicken – patience pays off. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Easy Classic Salisbury Steak Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steak:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced into rings
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and another 20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal you can whip up after a long day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Patty Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can make the patties tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Using your hands, shape the beef mixture into 4 oval patties. Make them about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Prepare the Gravy:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, toss in the sliced onion rings and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
5. Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and stir it for 1-2 minutes. This helps to cook the flour and gives your gravy a nice flavor base.
6. Add the Broth:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. It’s important to keep stirring so your gravy stays smooth.
7. Season the Gravy:
Add Worcestershire sauce, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
8. Combine Patties and Gravy:
Return the cooked patties to the skillet with the gravy. Spoon some gravy over the top of the patties, cover, and let it simmer together for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Salisbury steaks are ready! Serve them hot atop mashed potatoes or alongside your favorite vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle more gravy on top for that extra deliciousness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef or even ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that using very lean meat might result in a slightly drier patty, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even panko for a crunchier texture. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The gravy can also be made ahead and refrigerated; just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
