Description

Craving a hearty, nostalgic meal that brings the warmth of diner-style comfort food to your table? The Best Salisbury Steak is your answer! This recipe features juicy, seasoned beef patties smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes

Ingredients

To make Best Salisbury Steak for 2 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds flavor, texture, or comfort to this classic dish:

Large Egg (1): Binds the beef patties for a tender texture.
Crushed Butter-Flavored Crackers (3 tbsp): Adds a buttery, crunchy binder for the patties.
Finely Chopped Onion (1 tbsp): Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the patties.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the beef’s flavor.
Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a mild kick.
Rubbed Sage (¼ tsp): Infuses a warm, earthy note.
Ground Beef (¾ lb): The hearty, savory base for the patties.
Mushroom Stems and Pieces (1 can, 4 oz, drained): Adds earthy flavor to the gravy.
Butter (2 tbsp): Creates richness in the gravy.
All-Purpose Flour (3 tbsp): Thickens the gravy for a smooth texture.
Water (1¾ cups): Forms the base of the gravy.
Beef Bouillon Cubes (2): Boosts the savory, beefy flavor.
Browning Sauce (¼ tsp, optional): Adds a rich, caramelized color to the gravy.
Hot Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, classic side to soak up the gravy.
Minced Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful garnish.

Substitutions and Variations:

Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Crackers: Use plain breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed saltines if you don’t have butter-flavored crackers.
Mushrooms: Replace with fresh sliced mushrooms (about 1 cup) or skip for a plain gravy.
Butter: Substitute with olive oil or margarine for a different flavor or dairy-free option.
Browning Sauce: Omit if unavailable, or use a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Sides: Swap mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower, rice, or egg noodles.
Add-Ons: Stir in sautéed onions, garlic, or a splash of red wine to the gravy for extra flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The beef provides protein, while the mushrooms and onions add fiber and umami. The gravy and mashed potatoes create a comforting, hearty texture, making this a balanced, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings.

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Patties

In a medium bowl, combine 1 large egg, 3 tbsp crushed butter-flavored crackers, 1 tbsp finely chopped onion, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, and ¼ tsp rubbed sage.
Add ¾ lb ground beef and mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix to keep patties tender).
Shape into 2 equal patties, about ½-inch thick.

Tip: Handle the beef lightly to avoid dense patties. Wet your hands to prevent sticking while shaping.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

In a medium skillet, cook the patties over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F).
Drain excess fat and transfer patties to a platter; cover to keep warm.

Tip: Don’t press the patties while cooking to retain their juices.

Step 3: Make the Mushroom Gravy

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add 1 can (4 oz) drained mushroom stems and pieces and sauté for 2 minutes.
Stir in 3 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute until blended, forming a roux.
Gradually add 1¾ cups water and 2 beef bouillon cubes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook and stir until the gravy is smooth and thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in ¼ tsp browning sauce, if using, for a richer color.

Tip: Whisk the water in slowly to ensure a smooth, lump-free gravy.

Step 4: Simmer with Patties

Return the patties to the skillet, turning to coat in the gravy.
Cook, uncovered, over low heat for 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through.

Tip: If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the Salisbury steaks and gravy onto plates alongside or over hot mashed potatoes.
Sprinkle with minced fresh parsley, if desired, for a fresh, colorful touch.
Serve immediately.

Tip: Fluff the mashed potatoes with a fork before serving to make them extra creamy for soaking up the gravy.