As a home cook, I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen, crafting meals that bring my family together. One dish that never fails to evoke nostalgia is my Simple Salisbury Steak. The aroma of sizzling beef mingling with savory mushrooms fills the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood dinners. This recipe is not just about the food; it’s about the love and warmth shared around the table. With its rich, comforting flavors and quick preparation, Simple Salisbury Steak is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet easy to make. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
What is Simple Salisbury Steak?
Simple Salisbury Steak is a classic American dish that combines seasoned ground beef patties with a rich, savory gravy, often featuring mushrooms. Originating in the late 19th century, it was named after Dr. James Salisbury, who believed in the health benefits of a meat-based diet. This dish has evolved over the years, becoming a staple in many households due to its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. With its roots in American cuisine, Simple Salisbury Steak reflects a blend of culinary influences, making it a beloved comfort food across generations.
Why You’ll Love This Simple Salisbury Steak
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, savory flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
- Nutritious, packed with protein and low in fat.
- Versatile; pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Who It’s For
This recipe is ideal for busy families looking for a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in under 40 minutes. It’s also great for health-conscious cooks who want a hearty dish without excessive calories. Food lovers will appreciate the comforting flavors and the nostalgia it brings, making it a perfect addition to any dinner table.
When to Cook It
Simple Salisbury Steak is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. It’s also a great choice for family gatherings or casual celebrations, providing a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your immediate family, this dish is sure to please.
- 1 lb ground beef – the main protein source; can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – helps bind the patties; use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped – adds flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- 1 egg – acts as a binder; can replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – enhances umami flavor; soy sauce can be a substitute.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning; feel free to add garlic powder for extra flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth – forms the base of the gravy; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – adds texture and flavor; can use any mushrooms you prefer.
- 2 tbsp flour – thickens the gravy; cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for cooking the patties; can substitute with vegetable oil or butter.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into four equal patties.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned.
- Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Return the browned patties to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the gravy for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve the patties hot, generously topped with the mushroom gravy. Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or rice!
- Stevia – a natural sweetener with zero calories, perfect for adding sweetness without sugar.
- Monk fruit – another natural option that provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Allulose – a low-calorie sugar that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on blood glucose.
Avoid using honey or maple syrup as they can spike blood sugar levels significantly.
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving plate
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Chef Gordon Ramsay emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs and vegetables can elevate your Simple Salisbury Steak.
- Don’t Overmix: According to Chef Ina Garten, overmixing the meat can lead to tough patties. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Let the Patties Rest: Chef Jamie Oliver suggests letting the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain their juices, making them more flavorful and moist.
- Experiment with Spices: Chef Rachael Ray encourages adding spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Make Ahead: Chef Alton Brown recommends preparing the patties in advance and freezing them. This way, you can have a quick meal ready to go on busy nights.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Simple Salisbury Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Thaw frozen Salisbury steak in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep the gravy moist, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
- Serving: Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving again.
- Overmixing the Meat: Mixing the beef too much can lead to tough patties. Aim for just enough mixing to combine the ingredients without overworking the meat.
- Not Browning the Patties: Skipping the browning step can result in a lack of flavor. Browning adds depth and richness to the dish, so don’t rush this crucial step.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ground beef can affect the texture. Let the meat sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing to ensure even cooking.
- Skipping the Gravy: The gravy is what makes Simple Salisbury Steak special. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the dish and adds moisture to the patties.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasoning to ensure a delicious, well-balanced dish.
Q: Can I make Simple Salisbury Steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
Q: Is Simple Salisbury Steak healthy?
It depends on the ingredients you use; opting for lean ground beef and serving it with vegetables can make it a healthier choice.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for Simple Salisbury Steak?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner version of this dish.
Q: Does Simple Salisbury Steak freeze well?
Yes, it freezes well; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and texture.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the gravy?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra flavor and nutrition in your Simple Salisbury Steak.
Simple Salisbury Steak is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings families together. With its rich flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s a dish that can easily become a staple in your home. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. If you enjoyed this Simple Salisbury Steak recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too!
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Simple Salisbury Steak Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and easy recipe for delicious Salisbury steak, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into patties.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the patties and set aside. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Return the patties to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with the mushroom gravy over the patties.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add garlic powder to the beef mixture.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Simple Salisbury Steak, Salisbury Steak Recipe