Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy

There’s something inherently comforting about the smell of Salisbury steak wafting through the kitchen—a rich, savory aroma that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This classic dish, brimming with tender patties of seasoned beef and drenched in a velvety mushroom gravy, is a childhood favorite for many. It’s the kind of meal that evokes nostalgia, bringing to mind family gatherings and hearty dinners. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or a side of green beans, Salisbury steak is not just a meal; it’s a delicious slice of home.

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 27g

Why Make This Recipe

Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy melds simplicity with elevation. Not only is it a quick and fuss-free dish, but it’s also one that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves your taste buds singing. The succulent texture of the beef paired with the earthy mushrooms makes for a marriage of flavors that’s hard to resist. This recipe is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or impromptu get-togethers—whenever you need a hearty meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters.

How to Make Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions

Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Shape the mixture into four equal patties.
Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re tender and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Finish the Dish: Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked patties to the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the patties are heated through.
Serve: Plate the Salisbury steaks and generously spoon the mushroom gravy over the top.

Cooking Tips

Don’t Overmix: When forming the patties, mix just until combined to keep the texture tender.
Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; ground beef should read 160°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.

How to Serve

Salisbury steak shines on its own, but it pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed rice to soak up that delicious gravy. For a touch of freshness, consider serving with blanched green beans or a crisp garden salad.

How to Store

Room Temperature: Ideally, consume within 2 hours to ensure best quality and safety.
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Place in a sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Expert Tips

Best Mushrooms: Opt for cremini or shiitake mushrooms for a richer flavor.
Meat Variations: If using lean ground beef, consider adding a splash of more cream or beef broth for moisture.
Gravy Thickness: To achieve your desired thickness, adjust the flour or broth accordingly.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute ground meat with lentils or veggie meat, and use a plant-based cream in the gravy.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour alternatives, like almond flour.
Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese on top of the patties before serving for a gooey delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work great, though they may require slight adjustments to cooking times.
Why is my steak dry?
This might happen if the meat is overcooked. Using a meat thermometer can help avoid this.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover Salisbury steak is delicious in a sandwich the next day or cut into slices and served over a salad.
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef or mushrooms. Just ensure they’re fully thawed and drained before cooking.

Conclusion

This Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy recipe is indeed a warm embrace on a plate. It’s perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or even a cozy night in with your loved ones. I hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with its comforting flavors, just as so many have before you. Feel free to share your thoughts or any variations you’ve tried; I’d love to hear how your culinary adventure goes!