My grandmother used to say that recipes aren’t just about the ingredients or the steps, they’re stories passed down from one generation to the next. I remember when I was little, we’d visit her on Sundays. The aroma of her cooking would greet us before we even stepped into her kitchen. Among her many signature dishes, Salisbury Steak was one of my absolute favorites. Its savory flavors and rich gravy always reminded me of the warmth and love of our family gatherings.
A few months ago, during a neighborhood potluck, my next-door neighbor, Mrs. Jones, complimented me on my Salisbury Steak. With a gleam in her eye, she shared that it tasted just like the one her mother used to make for her. We laughed about how food has this magical ability to evoke cherished memories, and I promised to share my recipe with her. So, here it is, a dish that’s close to my heart, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.
How to Prepare Salisbury Steak
Ingredients for Salisbury Steak
- 2 pounds of finely ground beef
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh milk
- 1 packet of dry onion flavoring mix (1 ounce)
- 1/4 cup of general-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- 2 cans of creamy chicken soup (each 10 1/2 ounces)
- 3/4 cup of clean water
- 1 sachet of dry au jus seasoning mix (1 ounce)
Directions for Salisbury Steak
- In a spacious bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and onion mix thoroughly. Form the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties.
- Warm the oil in a skillet on a medium to high flame. Lightly cover the patties in flour and swiftly sear on both sides till they achieve a golden hue.
- Arrange the seared patties in the slow cooker, layering them in an alternating pattern.
- In a separate bowl, combine the creamy chicken soup, water, and au jus seasoning. Pour this mixture over the patties in the slow cooker.
- Let it simmer on a Low setting till the beef is thoroughly cooked, which should take around 4 to 5 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be a great alternative to beef for a leaner version. However, the flavor might be slightly different, so adjust seasonings accordingly.
Is there an alternative to the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs?
Certainly! You can use plain breadcrumbs and add your preferred herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley to mimic the Italian flavor.
Can I prepare this without a slow cooker?
Of course. If you’re not using a slow cooker, you can simmer the patties in a covered skillet or pot on low heat after adding the gravy. Make sure to check and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with equal parts cold water) into the gravy before pouring it over the patties.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Salisbury Steak?
Yes, once cooled, you can store the Salisbury Steak in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Salisbury Steak (Slow Cooker )
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 1 ounce envelope dry onion soup mix
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 10 1/2 ounce cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 1 ounce packet dry au jus mix
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, and onion soup mix together in a large bowl until well combined; shape into 8 patties.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge patties in flour just to coat, and quickly brown on both sides in the hot skillet.
- Place browned patties into the slow cooker stacking alternately like a pyramid.
- Mix condensed soup, water, and au jus mix together in a medium bowl; pour over the beef patties.
- Cook on Low until ground beef is well done, about 4 to 5 hours.
