This Classic Salisbury Steak is like a warm hug on a plate! Juicy beef patties are beautifully seasoned and served with a rich onion gravy that makes it so tasty.
You can’t go wrong with this comfort food. I often pair it with mashed potatoes, and it’s a hit every time! Let’s be real, the gravy makes everything better, right? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy patties. If you prefer leaner meat, 90/10 ground beef works too. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs add texture, but if you need a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. You could also use oats for a healthier twist!
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for sweetness, but you can use white or red onions if that’s what you have. Sautéed shallots would add a nice touch too.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds great flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of soy sauce and a dash of vinegar can act as a substitute, though it will alter the taste slightly.
How Do I Make Sure My Salisbury Steaks Are Juicy and Tender?
Getting the right texture in your Salisbury steaks is super important. Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Mix the ground beef mixture gently; overmixing can result in tough patties.
- Shape them into oval forms to promote even cooking.
- Cook them on medium-high heat for a nice sear, which adds flavor.
- Don’t skip the resting period after they’re cooked; it helps them retain moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Caramelize Onions for the Gravy?
Caramelizing onions can be a game changer in terms of flavor! Here’s the key:
- Use medium heat for slow cooking, allowing the onions to soften without burning.
- Add a pinch of salt early on to help draw out moisture.
- Be patient! Stir occasionally, and let them become a rich, brown color — this can take about 10 minutes.
With these tips, you’ll master your Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy in no time! Enjoy delicious home cooking!
Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Rich Onion Gravy:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the patties and the gravy, and then about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined to keep the patties tender; avoid overmixing.
2. Shape the Patties:
With your hands, form the mixture into 4 oval patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
6. Make the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
7. Add Broth:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring well to avoid lumps. This will create a smooth gravy.
8. Season the Gravy:
Add Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce (if using) to the gravy. Bring it to a simmer, letting it cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Combine Steaks and Gravy:
Return the cooked Salisbury steaks to the skillet, spooning some gravy and onions over them. Let them simmer in the gravy for an additional 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot alongside mashed potatoes or your favorite sides, and enjoy your delicious homemade Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Classic Salisbury Steak with Rich Onion Gravy
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it may be a bit drier, so you might want to add a touch more milk or some finely chopped vegetables for moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar. This combination provides a nice depth of flavor similar to Worcestershire.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to refresh the gravy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the patties and make the gravy ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
