Salisbury steak has been a family favorite for generations, but have you ever tried making it with onion soup mix? This simple yet flavorful twist makes the dish even easier to prepare and adds a savory richness that’s impossible to resist. The beauty of the Salisbury steak recipe with onion soup mix lies in its simplicity. By using the soup mix as both a seasoning and a base for the gravy, you create a hearty, flavorful meal in no time.
Growing up, Salisbury steak was one of those dishes that always made its way to the dinner table after a long day. Whether it was a weeknight dinner or a special Sunday meal, it never failed to please. The combination of tender ground beef patties, rich gravy, and savory onions is both comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth to your home, especially during chilly months or after a hectic day.
This version of Salisbury steak with onion soup mix is perfect for when you want a comforting meal that requires minimal effort. It’s the ideal choice for a busy weeknight, but it’s hearty enough to impress guests or make a delicious family dinner. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the onion soup mix ensures that the flavor is always spot on.
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Why this Salisbury Steak Recipe with Onion Soup Mix Works
When it comes to cooking, simplicity often yields the best results. The Salisbury steak recipe with onion soup mix is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something absolutely delicious. Here’s why this recipe works so well:
1. Quick & Easy
Using onion soup mix takes the guesswork out of flavoring the dish. Instead of spending time chopping onions and preparing a homemade sauce, the mix provides all the flavor you need in one simple packet. This shortcut makes it a great option for busy cooks or beginners.
2. Tender & Flavorful
Ground beef is the traditional meat for Salisbury steak, and when combined with the seasoning in the onion soup mix, it creates a perfect patty. The mix not only gives the patties rich flavor but also keeps them moist and tender. The result is a juicy, well-seasoned steak every time.
3. Gravy Perfection
One of the standout features of this recipe is the gravy. The onion soup mix thickens the sauce and adds a deep, savory flavor. It’s rich without being overwhelming, and it perfectly complements the beef patties. If you’ve ever struggled to make a good gravy from scratch, the onion soup mix is a foolproof option.
4. Customizable for Your Taste
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Want a bit more spice? Add some garlic powder or cayenne pepper to the beef mix. Prefer a creamier gravy? Stir in some heavy cream or sour cream for a velvety finish. You can easily adjust the seasoning to your liking, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
5. Family-Friendly
Not only is this recipe easy, but it’s also guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Kids and adults alike love the savory, comforting nature of Salisbury steak, and the addition of the onion soup mix ensures that it has a consistent, delicious flavor every time.
This Salisbury steak recipe with onion soup mix is more than just a shortcut—it’s an upgrade to an already beloved dish. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a new weeknight favorite.
Recipe Card
Salisbury Steak Recipe with Onion Soup Mix
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes25
minutes350-400
kcalThis comforting Salisbury steak with onion soup mix is a perfect dish for a cozy weeknight meal. With its savory beef patties, rich gravy, and satisfying flavors, it’s a dinner that will feel like a warm hug on your plate. The addition of onion soup mix enhances the dish, making it a quick and flavorful option for anyone looking for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- For the patties:
1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juicy steaks)
1 packet onion soup mix (dry)
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free or almond flour for variations)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the gravy:
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 packet onion soup mix (dry)
1 cup beef broth (low-sodium if preferred)
1 cup water
1 tablespoon cornstarch (or flour for non-gluten-free option)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Make the patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion soup mix, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined. Form the mixture into four oval patties.
- Cook the patties: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C). Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the gravy: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Stir in the onion soup mix and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the flavor. Then, pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the gravy: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little bit of cold water to make a slurry. Gradually add this to the simmering gravy, stirring constantly until it thickens (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish the dish: Return the patties to the skillet, spoon the gravy over them, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot, with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish.
Notes
- For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- If you prefer a more robust gravy, add some sautéed mushrooms to the sauce.
- This recipe is easily doubled for a larger group or family dinner.
- Make sure to let the patties rest after cooking for a juicier result.
Pro Tips for Success
Making a Salisbury steak recipe with onion soup mix is a relatively simple process, but there are a few key tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time. These pro tips will help you avoid common mistakes and elevate your dish to the next level, guaranteeing a flavorful, tender Salisbury steak that everyone will rave about.
1. Use Lean Ground Beef
The foundation of any great Salisbury steak is high-quality beef. While you can use ground beef with a higher fat content, lean beef (around 90% lean) works best. It provides a good balance between flavor and moisture without being overly greasy. If you prefer a richer taste, you can always mix in a small amount of ground pork to the beef.
2. Don’t Overwork the Meat
When combining the ground beef with the onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, and egg, be sure not to overwork the meat. Mixing too much can lead to tough, dense patties. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, and then shape the patties without pressing them too hard. The key is to keep them light and tender.
3. Form Uniform Patties
For even cooking, ensure your patties are uniform in size. This helps them cook evenly and ensures that everyone gets the same portion size. You can use a kitchen scale or just eyeball it, but try to keep the thickness and diameter as consistent as possible.
4. Sear the Patties for Extra Flavor
Before simmering the patties in the gravy, it’s essential to sear them. This step adds depth of flavor by caramelizing the beef’s natural sugars, giving the steaks a crispy, browned crust. Don’t skip this step! Use a heavy skillet (like cast iron) and cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure a nice sear on each patty.
Variants of the Salisbury Steak Recipe with Onion Soup Mix
The Salisbury steak recipe with onion soup mix is incredibly versatile, and there are numerous ways to customize the dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Below, we’ve explored several variants that will allow you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, ensuring that your meal fits your tastes and lifestyle.
1. Low-Carb Salisbury Steak
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily adapt this recipe to be more suitable by making a few key substitutions. Instead of using breadcrumbs in the patties, swap them for almond flour or crushed pork rinds. These options will provide the necessary binding for the patties without adding the carbs found in traditional breadcrumbs.
For the gravy, you can skip the flour thickening agent or use a small amount of xanthan gum to create a low-carb, thickened sauce. This variant is just as hearty and satisfying as the original, with fewer carbs and an equally flavorful profile.
Pro Tip: Serve this version with cauliflower mashed potatoes or steamed broccoli to keep the meal low-carb while still being comforting and filling.
2. Vegetarian Salisbury “Steak”
For a vegetarian version of this classic dish, swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative. There are several great vegetarian ground meat options available on the market, such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, that can easily mimic the texture and flavor of ground beef.
If you prefer a more homemade approach, you can also make a veggie-based patty using mushrooms, lentils, or black beans as a base. The savory onion soup mix can still be used to add that classic flavor to the gravy, and the result is a satisfying, meat-free Salisbury “steak” with all the comfort of the original.
Pro Tip: For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots into your veggie patties to bring out even more umami notes.
3. Mushroom Salisbury Steak
Mushrooms are a natural companion to Salisbury steak, adding an earthy depth that complements the savory gravy. In this variation, you can stir sautéed mushrooms directly into the gravy or mix them into the patties for added texture and flavor. The mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but also increase the richness of the dish.
You can use white button mushrooms, cremini, or even portobello mushrooms for a deeper, meatier taste. Adding mushrooms to the gravy is especially delicious, as they soak up all the wonderful flavors, creating a hearty sauce.
Pro Tip: If you’re a mushroom lover, don’t be afraid to pile on the mushrooms in both the patties and the gravy to create a double mushroom hit. This variant is perfect for anyone who loves a savory, umami-packed dish.
FAQs about Salisbury Steak Recipe with Onion Soup Mix
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats for a healthier or vegetarian version. Ground turkey or chicken will result in a leaner dish, while plant-based patties are a great vegetarian or vegan option.
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and cook them in advance. Store the cooked patties in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat the patties in a skillet with the gravy until they’re hot and ready to serve.
Yes, you can! If you prefer to use fresh onions, sauté about 1 cup of chopped onions in butter or oil until soft and golden. Then, add 1-2 teaspoons of onion powder, garlic powder, and a little beef broth to mimic the flavors of onion soup mix. I suggest you try the classical Salisbury Steak Recipe with fresh onion!
Final Thoughts
Salisbury steak with onion soup mix is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity, flavor, and heartwarming satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a classic meal to impress the family, this dish delivers. The rich, savory gravy drenched over juicy, tender beef patties is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. With the added convenience of onion soup mix, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a perfect solution for busy evenings when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
One of the things that makes this dish so beloved is how versatile it is. You can switch up the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences—swap the beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. The creamy gravy can also be customized with extra ingredients like mushrooms or fresh herbs, depending on your taste. And with the ability to make it ahead and freeze for later, Salisbury steak offers incredible convenience for busy families or meal planners.
The warm, nostalgic flavors of this classic American dish are perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening, making it an ideal meal for any season. Once you’ve made it, you’ll quickly see why Salisbury steak with onion soup mix is such a timeless favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the comforting, savory goodness it brings to your table.
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