The smell of Salisbury steak cooking in the kitchen meant comfort was coming. The beef patties in onion gravy with mashed potatoes made me feel full. Even now, I miss this dish, a reminder of happy times and loving care.
Want to bring that comfort home? Try this old-fashioned Salisbury steak recipe. It’s easy to make with a few ingredients. You’ll feel like you’re back in your childhood.
Need a little inspiration for Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak Recipe? Here are some great ideas to get started!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Salisbury steak is a classic comfort food made with ground beef patties simmered in a rich onion gravy.
- This recipe uses 2 lbs of lean ground beef and 3 packets of McCormick Onion Gravy mix.
- Mashed potatoes and sautéed mushrooms are traditional side dishes that complement the savory flavors.
- The dish can be easily prepared on the stovetop or baked in the oven for a hands-off approach.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great meal prep option.
Introduction to Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak is a beloved comfort food in America. It’s made with seasoned ground beef patties and a rich gravy. This dish is a true taste of retro cuisine and homestyle cooking. It has been enjoyed for generations, thanks to its origins in the late 1800s.
What is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is like a hamburger steak but with a brown gravy. It often includes onions or mushrooms. It was named after Dr. James Salisbury, who thought eating meat was good for health.
While Dr. Salisbury suggested eating it three times a day, today it’s enjoyed as a comforting meal.
The History Behind Salisbury Steak
Dr. James Salisbury introduced “Salisbury steak” in 1888. He believed in a low-carb diet and saw his ground beef dish as healthy. Over time, it became a favorite classic recipe and homestyle cooking dish, loved in many rural areas.
“Salisbury steak is a true comfort food classic, with a rich history and hearty, satisfying flavors that have stood the test of time.”
Key Ingredients for Your Steak
Making a tasty Salisbury steak starts with picking the right ingredients. The main part is the ground beef patties. They should be from lean 85/15 ground beef for the best taste and texture. You’ll also need breadcrumbs, like Panko, and a beaten egg to hold the patties together.
Important seasonings and spices like garlic, ground sage, black pepper, and salt make the patties taste better. Some recipes add Worcestershire sauce or ketchup for extra flavor. And, sautéed yellow onions are a must for the savory gravy.
Ground Beef Options
Choosing the right ground beef is key:
- Lean 85/15 ground beef: It’s the perfect mix of taste and texture without too much fat.
- Ground chuck: It has a bit more fat than 85/15 but tastes richer.
- Ground sirloin: This is the leanest choice, making a firmer, denser patty.
Essential Seasonings and Spices
Here are the must-haves for seasoning your Salisbury steak:
- Garlic, minced or powdered
- Ground sage
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Ketchup (optional)
- Onion powder (optional)
- Soy sauce (optional)
These seasonings and spices will make your ground beef patties and brown gravy taste amazing.
“The key to a perfect Salisbury steak is in the seasoning – a blend of savory spices that complement the richness of the ground beef.”
How to Prepare the Meat Mixture
Making the perfect old fashioned salisbury steak starts with the meat mixture. This step is key to keeping your patties juicy and tender.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a big bowl, mix ground beef that’s about 85% lean. This keeps it moist and tender. Add breadcrumbs, like panko, for a crispy coating. Also, add a beaten egg to help the ingredients stick together.
Season with ketchup, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and any other spices you like. Mix everything gently with your hands or a fork. Be careful not to overmix, so the meat stays soft and tender.
Shaping the Patties
After mixing, divide the meat into 4-6 parts. Shape each part into an oval patty, about 3/4 inch thick. This size ensures even cooking and a great taste.
Let the patties rest for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps the egg binder work, so the ground beef patties stay together while cooking.
“The key to a perfect Salisbury steak is in the preparation of the meat mixture. Take your time to mix the ingredients gently and shape the patties with care. This attention to detail will result in a satisfying and flavorful dish.”
Cooking Methods: Stovetop vs. Oven
Choosing the right cooking method is key to making perfect vintage meals. For this classic homestyle cooking Salisbury steak recipe, you can use the stovetop or oven. Each method has its own benefits.
Stovetop Cooking Instructions
For stovetop cooking, heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Place the Salisbury steak patties in the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. This way, you get a nice sear and juicy texture.
Oven-Baked Technique
The oven-baked method is great if you like to do less work. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patties on a greased baking sheet or dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re fully cooked. This method ensures even cooking and juicy steaks.
Whether you choose stovetop or oven, make sure the beef is fully cooked. Both methods will give you delicious, vintage meals that are perfect for homestyle cooking.
Making the Delicious Gravy
Adding flavor to your Salisbury steak is all about the gravy. This rich sauce is the perfect match for the tender beef. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps to make a gravy that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients for the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Gravy Preparation
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 7-10 minutes.
2. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and mushrooms, and whisk continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Allow the gravy to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally.
Now, your brown gravy is ready. Spoon it generously over your Salisbury steak for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions for Salisbury Steak
Once you’ve perfected your homemade Salisbury steak, the possibilities are endless. This classic comfort food dish pairs well with many side dishes. It also pairs with creative dishes to make your meal special.
Classic Side Dishes
The traditional way to serve Salisbury steak is with creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy. You can also add steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or broccoli. A fresh, crisp salad is a great side, balancing the richness of the steak and gravy.
Creative Pairing Ideas
- Serve the Salisbury steak over a nest of egg noodles for a hearty, satisfying dish.
- For a fun twist, try making Salisbury steak sliders by shaping the meat into mini patties and serving them on small buns or dinner rolls.
- Get creative and serve the steak open-faced on thick slices of toast or biscuits for a delightful open-faced sandwich experience.
No matter how you choose to serve your Salisbury steak, the classic recipes and comforting flavors will satisfy your cravings. They bring a taste of nostalgia to your table.
Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak
Making an old fashioned salisbury steak recipe is a fun challenge. It doesn’t matter if you’re experienced or new to cooking. A few easy tips can make your Salisbury steak perfect every time.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Choosing the right ground beef is key for a juicy steak. Go for an 80/20 blend for moist and tender patties. Don’t overwork the meat to avoid tough patties. Let the cooked patties rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
- Season the meat well with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Make sure the flavors are just right.
- Caramelize onions in the pan before adding the patties. This adds a sweet, savory flavor.
- Use beef broth or Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. This makes a rich, tasty gravy that goes great with the old fashioned salisbury steak recipe.
By focusing on the details and trying new things, you can make your homestyle cooking Salisbury steak even better. Enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keeping your vintage meals, like Salisbury steak, fresh is important. Follow these easy tips to enjoy your homestyle comfort food anytime.
Proper Storage Techniques
Uncooked Salisbury steak patties can stay in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cooked patties can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2 months. Use an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to keep them fresh.
Best Reheating Methods
Ready to enjoy your leftover Salisbury steak? There are simple ways to reheat it. The microwave is good, heating in 1-minute intervals at 50% power. Or, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or water.
Adding moisture is key to prevent dryness. With these tips, your Salisbury steak will always taste great, just like the first time.
Variations to Try
The classic Salisbury steak recipe is loved by many. But, why not try new flavors and twists? Whether you love classic recipes or enjoy trying new things, there are many ways to make your Salisbury steak even better.
Mushroom or Onion Variations
For a tasty twist, sauté sliced mushrooms and onions. They add a rich, flavorful gravy to your dish. The earthy mushrooms and sweet onions go great with the beef patties.
You can also try different mushrooms like cremini, portobello, or wild mushrooms. This adds more depth and complexity to your meal.
Adding Unique Ingredients
Be creative with your Salisbury steak. Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the patty mixture. This gives it a nice aroma.
For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs. Or, mix ground beef with ground pork or lamb for a low-carb version.
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and try new things. Start with a classic Salisbury steak and then add your own twist. This way, you can create a unique and tasty comfort food dish.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of comfort food classics like Salisbury steak is key. A typical serving has about 494 calories. It includes 29 grams of fat, 26 grams of carbs, and 33 grams of protein.
Caloric Breakdown
The high calories in Salisbury steak come from ground beef and creamy gravy. It also has 14 grams of saturated fat. This fat makes up 69% of the daily recommended amount.
Healthy Modifications
For a healthier Salisbury steak, try a few tweaks. Use leaner ground beef or turkey to cut down on fat and calories. Also, use less butter in the gravy. Add more veggies like mushrooms or onions for flavor and fiber without extra calories.
| Nutritional Information | Original Recipe | Healthier Version |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 494 | 167 |
| Fat | 29g | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 28g |
| Protein | 33g | 6.50g |
| Sodium | 730mg | Not Provided |
With these simple changes, you can enjoy Salisbury steak’s comfort and flavor while staying healthy. Remember, it’s all about balance when enjoying comfort food like this homestyle cooking classic.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Comfort Meal!
The old fashioned Salisbury steak recipe is a classic comfort food. It has juicy beef patties smothered in rich, flavorful gravy. This dish brings warmth and nostalgia to your home.
It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals. You can stick to the traditional recipe or try creative variations. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Take time to enjoy every bite of this comfort food classic. Let the flavors remind you of your childhood. Pair it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed green beans.
Enjoy the tender beef, savory gravy, and comforting aromas. This meal is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Make this old fashioned Salisbury steak a family tradition. It’s a simple pleasure that brings everyone together. Whether for a crowd or a cozy meal, it’s a beloved staple.