Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy (No Pork)

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark quite like Salisbury steak with mushroom gravy. This hearty, satisfying meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a way to impress your guests with something simple yet full of flavor. I recently made this pork-free version for a family dinner, and it was an instant hit. The rich and savory mushroom gravy complemented the juicy, perfectly seasoned Salisbury steaks, and the best part was that everyone had seconds! Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to please.

The Salisbury steak itself is tender, flavorful, and packed with a delicious blend of ingredients that make it juicy and hearty. The gravy, made with earthy mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce, is the real star, providing an irresistible richness that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice. And the best part? It’s completely pork-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Salisbury Steaks:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated onion
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Mushroom Gravy:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steaks: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, grated onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated. The mixture should be sticky but firm. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into oval patties. Press slightly in the center to help them cook evenly.
2. Sear the Steaks: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once the pan is hot, add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are browned. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. They don’t need to be cooked all the way through yet, as they will finish cooking in the gravy.
3. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until they become golden and caramelized. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to turn golden and thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and bring the gravy to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
5. Combine and Cook: Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the patties in the gravy for about 10 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through and have absorbed some of the gravy’s rich flavor. Stir in the fresh parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Garnish the Salisbury steaks with additional chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes. Spoon the mushroom gravy generously over the steaks and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal!

Nutrition Facts
(Servings: 4 | Calories per Serving: 400)

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve Salisbury steaks with mashed potatoes, spooning the mushroom gravy over the top.
• Pair with steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, for a balanced meal.
• Rice makes a great base for the gravy as well.
• For a lighter option, serve over cauliflower mash for a lower-carb alternative.
• Garnish with additional parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Meat: When making the patties, be sure to mix the meat just enough to combine the ingredients. Overworking the meat can lead to tough steaks.
2. Use Fresh Mushrooms: For the best flavor, opt for fresh mushrooms rather than canned. They’ll provide more depth and richness to the gravy.
3. Customize the Gravy: Add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce for extra umami in the gravy.
4. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the Salisbury steaks and gravy in advance. Refrigerate them and reheat gently in a skillet or the oven when ready to serve.
5. Be Careful with Salt: The Worcestershire sauce and beef broth already have a bit of salt, so taste the gravy before adding additional salt.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian-friendly version of Salisbury steak.
• Add Veggies to the Gravy: If you want to add more texture and flavor to your gravy, try adding chopped carrots or celery alongside the onions and mushrooms.
• Spicy Gravy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the gravy.
• Cheese Option: Top the Salisbury steaks with a slice of melted cheese, like Swiss or cheddar, before serving for a cheesy variation.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For an extra flavor boost, serve the Salisbury steaks with garlic mashed potatoes to complement the savory gravy.

Serving Suggestions

• With Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes are a natural pairing with Salisbury steak and mushroom gravy. The creamy potatoes soak up the gravy beautifully.
• With Rice: White or brown rice is another great base for the mushroom gravy.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
• With Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze Salisbury steak and gravy, let the patties cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag with the gravy and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat gently on the stove.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra beef broth if the gravy thickens too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey can be used, though it may not have the same richness as ground beef. You may need to adjust seasoning to enhance the flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?
   While mushrooms are a key flavor in the gravy, you can substitute with other vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini if desired.
3. What’s the best way to cook Salisbury steaks for a crowd?
   To make for a crowd, you can double the recipe and cook the patties in batches. Once browned, place them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to finish cooking.
4. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
   Yes, the gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
5. What kind of beef broth should I use?
   Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content in the dish. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use regular beef broth or even homemade stock.
6. How do I know when the Salisbury steaks are cooked through?
   To check if the steaks are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
7. Can I freeze the Salisbury steaks after cooking?
   Yes, after cooking, you can freeze the steaks and gravy. Just ensure they are cooled completely before storing in an airtight container.
8. Can I use a non-stick skillet for searing the patties?
   Yes, a non-stick skillet works great for searing the patties, but make sure to use enough oil to prevent sticking.
9. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
   If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce mixed with a bit of vinegar can be a good substitute.
10. Can I add cheese to the steaks?
    Absolutely! Adding cheese, like Swiss or cheddar, on top of the cooked patties before serving makes for a delicious variation.

Conclusion

Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy is a timeless comfort food that can easily be made without

pork while still keeping all the classic flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With tender, flavorful patties smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and comforting. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a classic dinner that will become a new family favorite!