Salisbury Steak with Onion Gravy

Introduction

Salisbury steak has long been a comfort food favorite in many households. With its rich flavor and hearty texture, this dish can transform a simple weeknight dinner into something special. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma filled the house, and as we sat down to eat, my kids couldn’t stop raving about it. The combination of savory beef patties and velvety onion gravy made it an instant hit. Since then, it’s become a regular at our dinner table, often paired with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. This recipe not only brings nostalgia but also satisfies those hearty cravings.

Ingredients

For the Salisbury Steaks:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/3 cup bread crumbs
• 2 teaspoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional, if not making onion gravy)

For the Onion Gravy:

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon ketchup
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Onions (Optional)

1. If you want caramelized onions in your gravy, heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Set aside.

Make the Salisbury Steaks

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 3-4 equal portions and shape each portion into patties.

Cook the Steaks

4. In the same skillet used for the onions, heat a teaspoon of oil over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them every 5-6 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Gravy

5. Pour out most of the grease from the skillet, leaving about 3-4 tablespoons. Add 1 cup of beef broth and bring it to a simmer.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup of beef broth and 4 tablespoons of flour until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering broth in the skillet.

Add Seasonings and Onions

7. Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and salt to taste. If you prepared caramelized onions, add them to the gravy now.

Simmer

8. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes, or until it thickens.

Serve

9. Return the Salisbury steaks to the gravy and let them simmer for an additional few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve the steaks with the gravy over them, accompanied by mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Place Salisbury steaks on a plate and generously spoon the onion gravy over them.
• Serve with:
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Steamed vegetables (like green beans or carrots)
• A fresh garden salad
• Crusty bread to soak up the gravy

Additional Tips

1. Customize Seasoning: Adjust the seasonings in the beef mixture to suit your taste. Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the flavor.
2. Use Lean Beef: For a healthier option, choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
3. Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add a bit more flour or reduce the broth slightly during simmering.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook for a quick weeknight meal.
5. Leftovers: Store leftover Salisbury steaks and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Mushroom Gravy: Substitute caramelized onions with sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Top the cooked patties with cheese (like Swiss or cheddar) during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version of this dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a glass of red wine for a more sophisticated dinner setting.
• For a complete meal, add garlic bread or a side of risotto.
• A simple dessert like apple pie or ice cream can follow this hearty main course.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, allow the cooked Salisbury steaks and gravy to cool completely. Place in airtight containers or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover Salisbury steaks and gravy in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

• Yes, ground turkey can be used, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

1. What if I don’t have beef broth?

• You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth.

1. Can I add more vegetables to the gravy?

• Absolutely! Carrots or bell peppers can be sautéed and added for extra flavor and nutrition.

1. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

• Yes, you can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time and reheat for easy meal options.

1. How do I know when the steaks are done cooking?

• Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

1. Can I skip the bread crumbs?

• Yes, but the patties may be less tender. You could use crushed crackers or oats as alternatives.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent drying out.

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour for the gravy.

1. How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

• Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

1. What sides pair well with Salisbury steak?

• Mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad are excellent accompaniments.

Conclusion

Salisbury steak with onion gravy is not only a delicious meal but also a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy, making it a perfect addition to any dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this Salisbury steak recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Give it a try, and watch it become a favorite in your household too!

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