Are you craving a hearty, home-cooked meal that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia? Look no further than this Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak recipe with its rich, flavorful gravy. This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a satisfying and healthy meal without sacrificing taste. This recipe is one of the best recipes for a quick dinner idea, and it delivers big on flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Salisbury Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
Get started with the Salisbury Steaks:
-
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough steaks.
-
Shape the mixture into four equal-sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
-
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Cook the Salisbury steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside.
Make the delicious gravy:
-
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
-
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
-
Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
-
Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
-
Stir in the soy sauce (if using) and thyme.
-
Return the Salisbury steaks to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
Serve your delicious Salisbury steaks hot, topped with the flavorful gravy. Mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad make excellent side dishes.
Variations:
- Mushroom lovers rejoice! Sauté sliced mushrooms and add them to the gravy for an earthy, umami boost.
- Spice it up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a touch of heat.
- Make it healthier! Use leaner ground beef (90/10) and reduce the amount of butter in the gravy.
- Add some veggies! Incorporate finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the meat mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 25-30g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome food. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver exceptional results. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, a comforting meal for a chilly evening, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!