Introduction
Hey there, fellow food lovers! Ready to transform humble ground beef into a hearty, delicious Salisbury steak that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? This recipe is pure comfort food magic, taking everyday ingredients and turning them into a family favorite you’ll make again and again. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why This Works
This Salisbury steak recipe works because it’s the perfect balance of savory and rich. The umami-packed ground beef patties are perfectly seasoned and simmered in a luscious gravy, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. But the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks! Minimal prep, maximum flavor – that’s what we’re all about.
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 🍞 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 🥚 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 🥛 1/2 cup milk
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌿 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍅 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 🍄 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 🥣 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Meat: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix everything until just combined – don’t overmix!
2️⃣ Shape the Patties: Form the meat mixture into 4 equally sized patties. Make them about 3/4 inch thick.
3️⃣ Brown the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until nicely browned. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
4️⃣ Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the tomato soup and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy slightly thickens.
5️⃣ Simmer the Steaks: Return the patties to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through.
6️⃣ Serve: Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, drizzled with the delicious gravy. Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed green beans make perfect sides.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers instead.
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture, or your patties will be tough.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is crucial for browning the patties beautifully without burning them. Lowering the heat to low for simmering ensures the patties cook through gently and the gravy doesn’t become too thick.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe isn’t about crunch, the browned patties offer a satisfying textural contrast to the smooth, rich gravy.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the patties reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- To make cleanup easier, line your skillet with parchment paper before browning the patties.
Storage Tips
Leftover Salisbury steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These Salisbury steaks make a wonderful and thoughtful gift! Package individual servings in attractive containers with a side of your favorite mashed potatoes or gravy mix.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Salisbury Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Use a variety of mushrooms, like cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms, for a more complex flavor.
🌟 Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the patties during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
🌟 Herb-Infused Gravy: Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs, such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary, to the gravy for an aromatic twist.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Patties: If your patties are dry, add a little more milk to the meat mixture.
- Gravy Too Thin: If your gravy is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Gravy Too Thick: If your gravy is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of beef broth or water to thin it out.
FAQ
- Can I freeze Salisbury steak? Yes, you can freeze cooked Salisbury steak for up to 3 months.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey will work well, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- What are some good sides to serve with Salisbury steak? Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, steamed green beans, and corn are all excellent choices.
- How do I make the gravy thicker? You can thicken the gravy by adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) at the end of cooking.
Conclusion
There you have it – Grandma’s Famous Salisbury Steak, a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends! We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us – we’d love to see your take on this classic dish! Happy cooking!