Salisbury Steak: A Classic Comfort Dish
Salisbury steak is an iconic American dish that’s been cherished for generations. It’s the ultimate comfort food, featuring flavorful beef patties simmered in a rich, savory gravy made with French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, and other mouthwatering ingredients. Paired with mashed potatoes or served over rice, Salisbury steak is a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the steps required to make One of THE VERY BEST Salisbury Steaks. From the history of Salisbury steak to helpful tips, variations, and serving ideas, we’ll cover all the aspects that make this dish a staple of home-cooked meals.
Table of Contents:
The History of Salisbury Steak
Ingredients for One of THE VERY BEST Salisbury Steaks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steaks
Serving Suggestions
Variations on the Classic Recipe
How to Make Salisbury Steak in Advance
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Nutritional Information
Conclusion
1. The History of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak’s origins trace back to the mid-19th century, where it was first developed by Dr. James Salisbury, an American physician. Dr. Salisbury believed that a diet of lean, ground beef would improve health, particularly digestive issues, and he recommended it as a therapeutic food. Over time, his concept evolved into a popular dish served in homes across America, particularly during the early 20th century.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Salisbury steak found its way into American pop culture thanks to frozen food companies, which produced versions of the dish for busy families. Today, Salisbury steak remains a beloved classic, served in restaurants, dinner tables, and even in the form of TV dinners. Its simplicity, heartiness, and delicious flavor make it a dish that never goes out of style.
2. Ingredients for One of THE VERY BEST Salisbury Steaks
To make One of THE VERY BEST Salisbury Steaks, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can Campbell’s French onion soup – This is the base for your gravy, imparting a rich, savory flavor to the dish. It provides both moisture for the patties and a deliciously seasoned sauce.
1 1/2 lbs ground beef – The star of the dish, providing the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor when shaped into patties.
1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs – These help bind the beef mixture together, giving the patties structure and moisture.
1 egg – Used to help hold everything together while adding richness to the patties.
1/4 teaspoon salt – For seasoning the patties and balancing the flavors.
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick of heat and flavor to the beef mixture.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – This will be used to thicken the gravy and help create a smooth texture.
1/4 cup ketchup – Adds a bit of tanginess and depth to the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor.
1-3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce – A must-have ingredient for its umami flavor and complexity. Adjust the amount to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder – This adds a mild, tangy element to the gravy that complements the rich flavors of the beef and French onion soup.
1/4 cup water – Used to thin the gravy to your desired consistency.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps of preparing One of THE VERY BEST Salisbury Steaks.
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
In a large bowl, combine 1/3 cup of the French onion soup with the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well incorporated. The breadcrumbs and egg will help bind the beef together, while the French onion soup will add seasoning and moisture.
Once the mixture is well combined, divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval-shaped patty. You can make them as thick or as thin as you prefer, but keep in mind that thicker patties may need a little more cooking time.
Step 2: Brown the Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook the patties in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. The goal here is to get a nice sear on both sides to lock in flavor. Once browned, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In the same skillet, pour off any excess fat, leaving a bit behind to create the base of your gravy.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining French onion soup, flour, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, and water until smooth. This mixture will form the gravy that will bring the Salisbury steaks to life.
Pour the gravy mixture into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir the mixture as it heats, allowing the flour to thicken the sauce. You should see the gravy begin to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Simmer the Salisbury Steaks
Return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the top of the patties to ensure they are well coated.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the Salisbury steaks simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy has thickened. Stir the gravy occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Serve
Once the Salisbury steaks are cooked and the gravy is thick and flavorful, serve the steaks hot with the gravy poured over the top. You can garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
4. Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steaks
For the best Salisbury steak experience, here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
Don’t Overwork the Beef: When mixing the beef mixture, be careful not to overwork it. Overmixing can lead to tough patties. Gently combine the ingredients until they’re just mixed.
Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (80/20 or leaner) to reduce excess fat. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a higher fat content, but be sure to drain the fat before adding the gravy.
Brown the Patties Well: Browning the patties before simmering them in the gravy adds a lot of flavor. Take the time to get a good sear on each side.
Adjust the Gravy Seasoning: Taste the gravy before adding the patties back into the skillet. You may want to adjust the seasoning with more Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, or even a pinch of salt, depending on your taste preferences.
5. Serving Suggestions
Salisbury steak pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some classic options to serve alongside:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful gravy.
Rice: Serve the Salisbury steaks over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to absorb the delicious gravy.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, peas, or green beans provide a nutritious and colorful contrast to the rich, meaty steak.
Buttered Corn: Corn is a classic side for Salisbury steak, and its sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the dish.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for mopping up any remaining gravy.
6. Variations on the Classic Recipe
While the classic version of Salisbury steak is undeniably delicious, there are plenty of variations to experiment with:
Mushroom Salisbury Steak: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet while browning the patties. The mushrooms will infuse the gravy with a rich, earthy flavor.
Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Top the cooked patties with cheese, such as shredded cheddar or Swiss, and let it melt over the patties during the final simmer.
Spicy Salisbury Steak: For those who enjoy a little heat, add hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy for a spicy twist.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner alternative, use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef. Be sure to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor of the leaner meat.
Onion Gravy: Use caramelized onions in place of the French onion soup for a more homemade, deeper onion flavor in your gravy.
7. How to Make Salisbury Steak in Advance
Salisbury steak is a great dish to prepare in advance, whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a meal prep session. Here’s how to make it ahead of time:
Prepare the Patties: Form the patties and store them in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Make the Gravy: You can also make the gravy ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Bake or Simmer Later: When ready to cook, brown the patties as directed and simmer them in the gravy. If making ahead, you can also store the cooked patties and gravy together in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
8. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have any leftover Salisbury steak, here’s how to store and reheat it:
Storing: Place the cooked Salisbury steak and gravy in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have extra gravy, store it separately to prevent the patties from getting soggy.
Freezing: You can also freeze Salisbury steaks. After cooking, let them cool completely, then wrap the patties and gravy tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the gravy.
9. Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of Salisbury steak (assuming 6 servings):
Calories: 380
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbs: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 800mg
This dish is filling, but the rich flavors come with a bit of indulgence. If you’re looking to make it a little lighter, consider using leaner ground beef or skipping the gravy altogether.
10. Conclusion
One of THE VERY BEST Salisbury Steaks is a timeless dish that offers the perfect balance of savory flavors and comfort. Whether served over mashed potatoes or rice, topped with rich, flavorful gravy, or enjoyed with your favorite vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can create a homemade version of this classic that rivals anything you’d find in a restaurant.