Salisbury Steak and Gravy: A Comforting Classic
Salisbury Steak and Gravy is a timeless comfort food that brings together tender beef patties smothered in a savory, rich gravy. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty meal that the whole family will love. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, Salisbury Steak with its flavorful gravy is a dish that satisfies on all levels.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basic recipe for Salisbury Steak and Gravy, share advanced techniques to enhance the dish, provide storage tips, and offer substitutions for those with dietary needs.
For more comforting beef recipes, check out Salisbury Steak Recipes on Food Network and Classic Salisbury Steak on Allrecipes.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients for Salisbury Steak and Gravy:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean is ideal for juicy patties)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the gravy)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for a deeper flavor)
Instructions:
STEP 1
- Make the Salisbury Steaks: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Press the center of each patty slightly to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
STEP 2
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the gravy. Gradually add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Simmer: Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Return the Salisbury steaks to the skillet, spoon some gravy over them, and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Once the Salisbury steaks are fully cooked through, serve them hot with the rich gravy poured over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Advanced Techniques for Salisbury Steak and Gravy
1. Enhance the Gravy:
While the basic gravy recipe is flavorful, you can elevate it by adding mushrooms for an earthy depth. Simply sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions in step 4 for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
2. Use Ground Chuck or Sirloin:
For a richer, more flavorful Salisbury steak, consider using ground chuck or ground sirloin instead of regular ground beef. These cuts have a higher fat content, making the patties more juicy and flavorful.
3. Add Extra Herbs and Spices:
To add complexity to your gravy, try incorporating fresh herbs such as rosemary or parsley, or even a dash of red wine to the gravy mixture. The wine will give the sauce a depth of flavor and richness.
4. Make It Spicy:
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture or the gravy. The heat will balance nicely with the savory beef and rich gravy.
5. Use Cream in the Gravy:
For a creamier, velvety gravy, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half in the last few minutes of cooking. This will make the gravy extra smooth and luxurious.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
How to Store:
Leftover Salisbury Steak and Gravy should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to separate the patties from the gravy if possible to keep both the steak and gravy in the best condition.
Freezing Tips:
For longer storage, you can freeze Salisbury Steak and Gravy. To freeze, place the cooked patties and gravy in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding extra broth if the gravy has thickened too much during freezing.
Reheating Tips:
To reheat, place the Salisbury steaks and gravy in a skillet over low heat and cook, covered, for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. If the gravy has thickened too much, add a bit of beef broth or water to thin it out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between, until hot.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free:
To make Salisbury Steak and Gravy gluten-free, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use oats as a binder. Additionally, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:
For a low-carb or keto version, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground pork rinds to form the patties. Skip the flour in the gravy and instead use Xanthan gum or arrowroot powder as a thickener.
Dairy-Free:
To make the dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine. Use a dairy-free cream or coconut milk in place of heavy cream for a rich gravy.
Vegetarian Option:
For a vegetarian version, you can make a lentil patty using cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Use vegetable broth for the gravy and skip the Worcestershire sauce if needed.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I use ground turkey for Salisbury steaks?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for ground beef. Just be aware that these meats are leaner, so you may need to add a little more fat, like olive oil or butter, to keep the patties moist.
2. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can form the patties a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This can help the flavors meld together and save time during meal prep.
3. What can I serve with Salisbury Steak and Gravy?
Salisbury Steak and Gravy pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or even buttered noodles. The rich gravy is perfect for soaking into whichever side dish you choose.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the extra patties, or you can cook the patties in batches.
5. Can I use pre-made gravy?
While homemade gravy adds the most flavor, you can certainly use store-bought gravy in a pinch. Simply heat it up and add it to the cooked Salisbury steaks for a quicker version of the dish.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Salisbury Steak and Gravy is a hearty and comforting dish that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. The tender, flavorful patties paired with the rich, savory gravy create a dish that is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special family meals. With easy-to-follow instructions and room for customization, this classic comfort food is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Try it today with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side for a complete meal that everyone will love!