Craving a hearty, comforting meal that tastes like a trip back to your favorite diner? Look no further! This diner-style Salisbury steak recipe delivers all the juicy, flavorful goodness you remember, without the fuss. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend treat. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Get ready to enjoy homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Mashed potatoes (for serving)
- Gravy (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Salisbury steak cooks evenly and perfectly.
Prepare the Meat Mixture:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough steak. A light mix is all you need.
Shape and Brown the Patties:
- Shape the meat mixture into four equal-sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and a pleasing presentation.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely seared.
Simmer to Perfection:
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, brown sugar, and soy sauce. This simple sauce elevates the dish to diner-level deliciousness.
- Pour the sauce over the browned patties in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Bake to Tenderness:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow cooking process ensures a tender, juicy Salisbury steak.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Salisbury steak hot, topped with a generous spoonful of creamy mashed potatoes. A side of rich gravy adds an extra layer of flavor, making it even more reminiscent of a classic diner experience.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can make the Salisbury steak tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use an oven-safe skillet: This simplifies the cooking process and allows for even browning and baking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce, depending on your preference.
- Add vegetables: For a healthier twist, incorporate finely chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms into the meat mixture.
Variations:
- Mushroom and Swiss: Top the cooked Salisbury steak with sautéed mushrooms and slices of Swiss cheese during the last few minutes of baking.
- Peppercorn Steak: Add a pinch of black peppercorns to the meat mixture for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of tomato soup for a tangier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, satisfying cravings for classic comfort food, and showcasing the ease and deliciousness of homemade cooking. Enjoy this easy recipe and your delicious diner-style Salisbury steak!