Introduction: Can a Dish Be Hearty, Savory, and Comfortingly Classic?
Craving a comforting, diner-style meal that’s rich with flavor? Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is a timeless dish featuring juicy ground beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or a nostalgic meal, this recipe elevates the classic Salisbury steak with a flavorful blend of seasonings and a robust gravy. Ready to cook up a plate of savory goodness? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is a Comfort Food Favorite
Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is beloved for its tender, well-seasoned beef patties and rich, mushroom-packed gravy. It’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: About 15 minutes to prep, 2 hours (or overnight) to chill, 20-25 minutes to cook.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate—requires mixing, chilling, and cooking, but straightforward for home cooks.
- Why It’s Special: The combination of seasoned beef patties and a thick, savory mushroom gravy creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This recipe yields 4 servings, ideal for a family meal or leftovers.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend comfort food, or any time you want a hearty, diner-inspired dish, this Salisbury steak is sure to impress.
Essential Ingredients
Chef John’s Salisbury Steak uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create its signature savory flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for 4 servings:
For the Steaks:
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef: Provides a juicy, flavorful base.
- ½ cup plain bread crumbs: Adds texture and binds the patties.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Helps hold the patties together.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami depth.
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard: Contributes a subtle, tangy heat.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Enhances savory flavor.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste: Provides a slight spicy kick.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: For cooking the patties.
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Forms the base for the gravy.
- 12 large white button mushrooms, sliced: Add earthy, umami flavor.
- 1 cup diced onion: Contributes sweetness and depth.
- Salt to taste: Enhances flavors.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.
- 3 cups high-quality, low-sodium beef broth: Creates a rich, savory base.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and depth.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- 85% Lean Ground Beef: Balances flavor and juiciness without being too greasy.
- Mushrooms and Onions: Create a hearty, flavorful gravy with earthy and sweet notes.
- Seasonings: Ketchup, Worcestershire, soy sauce, and mustard add a complex, savory profile.
- Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory foundation for the gravy.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for a different flavor.
- Mushrooms: Swap with cremini or shiitake for richer flavor, or omit for a simpler gravy.
- Beef Broth: Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat, vegetable broth, vegan Worcestershire, and vegan butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs, flour, and ensure Worcestershire and soy sauce are gluten-free.
- Spicy Salisbury Steak: Increase cayenne to ¼ teaspoon or add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the gravy.
- Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Top patties with a slice of cheddar or provolone during the last minute of cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Chef John’s Salisbury Steak involves preparing flavorful patties and a rich mushroom gravy. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 pound 85% lean ground beef, ½ cup plain bread crumbs, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, 2 tablespoons salted butter (for steaks), 2 tablespoons salted butter (for gravy), 12 large white button mushrooms, 1 cup diced onion, salt, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 cups low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons ketchup (for gravy), and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for gravy).
Tip: Prep ingredients ahead to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Steaks
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound ground beef, ½ cup bread crumbs, 1 beaten egg, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Mix with a fork or your hands until well combined.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up and meld flavors.
Tip: Chilling helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Melt 2 tablespoons salted butter in a large nonstick skillet over high heat.
- Add 12 sliced white button mushrooms, 1 cup diced onion, and a pinch of salt; sauté until nicely browned, 5-8 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes.
- Stir in 3 cups low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons ketchup, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
- Increase heat to high and bring to a simmer, then reduce to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens slightly and reduces, about 10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Transfer the gravy to a liquid measure and scrape the skillet clean with a spatula.
Tip: Brown the mushrooms well for maximum flavor in the gravy.
Step 4: Form and Cook the Steaks
- Remove the meat mixture from the refrigerator and divide into four equal portions.
- Moisten hands and form each portion into a ½-inch-thick oval patty.
- Lightly season both sides of the patties with salt.
- Melt 2 tablespoons salted butter in the clean skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add patties and cook until browned, 2-3 minutes per side.
- Pour the reserved gravy over the patties and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook until the gravy is piping hot and the steaks are no longer pink in the center, about 5 more minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160°F (70°C).
Tip: Avoid overcooking to keep the patties juicy; use a thermometer for accuracy.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, topped with the mushroom gravy, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or green beans.
Tip: Spoon extra gravy over the sides for a comforting, diner-style presentation.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Salisbury Steak
Making Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is all about creating juicy, flavorful patties and a rich gravy. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Patties: Mix and chill for firm, flavorful steaks.
- Gravy: Brown mushrooms and onions for depth, and simmer to thicken.
- Cooking: Sear patties for a flavorful crust, then finish in the gravy.
- Presentation: Serve with plenty of gravy to showcase the savory, comforting flavors.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the rich gravy.
- Present on a platter or individual plates for a hearty, diner-inspired look.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is great for leftovers and can be prepped ahead for convenience.
- Storage:
- Store leftover steaks and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a 350°F oven with a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
- Freeze cooked steaks and gravy (separately or together) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the meat mixture up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to form and cook.
- Make the gravy a day in advance, refrigerate, and reheat gently before adding to the patties.
- Form patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Tip: Reheat slowly to maintain the patties’ juiciness and the gravy’s texture.
Recipe Variations
Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Top patties with a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese during the last minute of cooking.
- Mushroom-Free Gravy: Omit mushrooms and double the onions for a simpler onion gravy.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs, flour, and ensure Worcestershire and soy sauce are gluten-free.
- Spicy Salisbury Steak: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the gravy or increase cayenne in the patties.
- Salisbury Meatballs: Form the meat mixture into meatballs and simmer in the gravy for a fun twist.
Conclusion: Savor the Diner-Style Comfort!
Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is the dish that brings hearty, savory comfort to every bite. With its tender, seasoned beef patties and rich mushroom gravy, it’s a perfect meal for family dinners, cozy evenings, or nostalgic cravings. Easy to make with a big flavor payoff, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So, grab your skillet, cook up this classic, and enjoy a plate of diner-style goodness. We’d love to hear how your Salisbury steak turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Chef John’s Salisbury Steak
Description
Craving a comforting, diner-style meal that’s rich with flavor? Chef John’s Salisbury Steak is a timeless dish featuring juicy ground beef patties smothered in a savory mushroom gravy. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or a nostalgic meal, this recipe elevates the classic Salisbury steak with a flavorful blend of seasonings and a robust gravy
Ingredients
For the Steaks:
- 1 pound 85% lean ground beef: Provides a juicy, flavorful base.
- ½ cup plain bread crumbs: Adds texture and binds the patties.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Helps hold the patties together.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami depth.
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard: Contributes a subtle, tangy heat.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Enhances savory flavor.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste: Provides a slight spicy kick.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: For cooking the patties.
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Forms the base for the gravy.
- 12 large white button mushrooms, sliced: Add earthy, umami flavor.
- 1 cup diced onion: Contributes sweetness and depth.
- Salt to taste: Enhances flavors.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.
- 3 cups high-quality, low-sodium beef broth: Creates a rich, savory base.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and depth.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- 85% Lean Ground Beef: Balances flavor and juiciness without being too greasy.
- Mushrooms and Onions: Create a hearty, flavorful gravy with earthy and sweet notes.
- Seasonings: Ketchup, Worcestershire, soy sauce, and mustard add a complex, savory profile.
- Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory foundation for the gravy.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or a beef-pork blend for a different flavor.
- Mushrooms: Swap with cremini or shiitake for richer flavor, or omit for a simpler gravy.
- Beef Broth: Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat, vegetable broth, vegan Worcestershire, and vegan butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs, flour, and ensure Worcestershire and soy sauce are gluten-free.
- Spicy Salisbury Steak: Increase cayenne to ¼ teaspoon or add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the gravy.
- Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Top patties with a slice of cheddar or provolone during the last minute of cooking.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 pound 85% lean ground beef, ½ cup plain bread crumbs, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, 2 tablespoons salted butter (for steaks), 2 tablespoons salted butter (for gravy), 12 large white button mushrooms, 1 cup diced onion, salt, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 3 cups low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons ketchup (for gravy), and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for gravy).
Tip: Prep ingredients ahead to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Steaks
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound ground beef, ½ cup bread crumbs, 1 beaten egg, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Mix with a fork or your hands until well combined.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up and meld flavors.
Tip: Chilling helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Melt 2 tablespoons salted butter in a large nonstick skillet over high heat.
- Add 12 sliced white button mushrooms, 1 cup diced onion, and a pinch of salt; sauté until nicely browned, 5-8 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium, add 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes.
- Stir in 3 cups low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons ketchup, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
- Increase heat to high and bring to a simmer, then reduce to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens slightly and reduces, about 10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Transfer the gravy to a liquid measure and scrape the skillet clean with a spatula.
Tip: Brown the mushrooms well for maximum flavor in the gravy.
Step 4: Form and Cook the Steaks
- Remove the meat mixture from the refrigerator and divide into four equal portions.
- Moisten hands and form each portion into a ½-inch-thick oval patty.
- Lightly season both sides of the patties with salt.
- Melt 2 tablespoons salted butter in the clean skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add patties and cook until browned, 2-3 minutes per side.
- Pour the reserved gravy over the patties and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook until the gravy is piping hot and the steaks are no longer pink in the center, about 5 more minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 160°F (70°C).
Tip: Avoid overcooking to keep the patties juicy; use a thermometer for accuracy.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Salisbury steaks hot, topped with the mushroom gravy, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or green beans.
Tip: Spoon extra gravy over the sides for a comforting, diner-style presentation.
FAQs
1. Why are my patties falling apart?
Patties may crumble if not chilled long enough or if overhandled. Chill for at least 2 hours and handle gently when forming.
2. Can I use leaner beef?
Yes, but 85% lean is ideal for juiciness. Leaner beef (e.g., 90%) may result in drier patties.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but use gluten-free bread crumbs, flour, and gluten-free Worcestershire and soy sauce.
4. Why is my gravy too thin?
Thin gravy may need more simmering time or a touch more flour. Simmer longer or add a slurry (1 tbsp flour + 2 tbsp water).
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prep the meat mixture or gravy a day ahead, or cook the full dish and reheat gently.
6. Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, then simmer in the gravy to finish.
7. What are the health benefits of this dish?
Beef provides protein and iron, mushrooms and onions add vitamins, but this is a rich dish—enjoy with a light side.