Salisbury Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Mushroom Gravy

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Introduction

Salisbury steak is a classic comfort food: a seasoned ground beef patty served with a rich mushroom gravy, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes. This dish combines hearty, meaty flavors with the creamy indulgence of potatoes and the earthy depth of mushrooms, creating a meal that is satisfying, homey, and perfect for family dinners.

Origin

Salisbury steak is named after Dr. James H. Salisbury, a 19th-century American physician who promoted a diet high in minced beef for health purposes. The dish gained popularity in the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s as a practical and affordable way to serve ground beef. Over time, it became a staple in home cooking and school cafeterias, evolving into the version we know today: beef patties served with gravy.

Cultural Significance

  • American Comfort Food: Salisbury steak represents classic American comfort food, evoking nostalgic memories of family dinners.
  • Economical and Accessible: Using ground beef made it a cost-effective option for families, highlighting ingenuity in making a filling meal from simple ingredients.
  • Cafeteria Favorite: Often served in schools and diners, it has become synonymous with hearty, familiar meals.
  • Adaptability: The dish can incorporate different gravies, vegetables, and seasonings, reflecting regional and personal preferences.

Ingredients (Quantity)

For the Salisbury Steak:

  • 1½ lb (≈680 g) ground beef
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Mushroom Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 8 oz (≈225 g) mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lb (≈900 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ½ cup milk (more if needed)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

  • Vegetables: Add peas, carrots, or green beans to the gravy or serve alongside.
  • Cheese: Top Salisbury steaks with shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese for extra richness.
  • Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or chives can enhance flavor in the mashed potatoes or gravy.
  • Onion Variations: Caramelized onions can replace raw sautéed onions in the patty mix for deeper flavor.
  • Gravy Variation: Use a splash of cream or sour cream for a creamier mushroom gravy.

Tips for Success

  1. Don’t overwork the meat: Mix the beef and breadcrumbs just until combined to keep the patties tender.
  2. Brown patties first: Searing patties in a skillet before adding gravy locks in flavor and texture.
  3. Simmer gently: Cook the patties in the gravy over low heat to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Potato texture: Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then mash immediately with butter and warm milk for creamy consistency.
  5. Season gradually: Taste the gravy and mashed potatoes, adjusting salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to balance flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

  1. Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender (about 15–20 minutes).
  2. Drain, then mash with butter and warm milk. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Salisbury Steak Patties:

  1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
  2. Form into 4–6 oval-shaped patties.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil or butter. Brown patties 2–3 minutes per side (they don’t need to cook through yet). Remove and set aside.

Mushroom Gravy:

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until browned.
  2. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and stir for 1 minute to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer until slightly thickened.
  4. Return patties to the skillet, spooning gravy over them, and simmer 10–15 minutes until cooked through. Adjust seasoning.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Serve the Salisbury steaks topped with mushroom gravy alongside mashed potatoes.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Description

The dish features tender, flavorful beef patties with a rich, savory mushroom gravy. The creamy mashed potatoes complement the hearty steak and soak up the gravy for a perfectly balanced bite. It’s a warm, filling, and satisfying meal that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity.

Nutritional Information (Estimate per serving, serves 4)

  • Calories: ~550 kcal
  • Protein: ~35 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~40 g
  • Fat: ~28 g
  • Fiber: ~4 g
  • Sodium: ~650 mg

Conclusion and Recommendation

Salisbury Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Mushroom Gravy is a classic comfort dish ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and widely loved by adults and children alike. The combination of tender beef, rich gravy, and creamy potatoes makes it a timeless American favorite.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

  • Use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) to reduce fat.
  • Add extra vegetables to the gravy or side to increase fiber and nutrients.
  • Use low-sodium beef broth to manage sodium intake.
  • Incorporate cauliflower mash or a mix of potatoes and cauliflower for lighter mashed potatoes.
  • Serve moderate portions and balance the meal with a fresh green salad for a more nutrient-rich plate.

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