Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

#### Step 3: Make the Gravy
1. **Sauté the onions**: In the same skillet where you cooked the patties, add a bit more butter or oil. Add the sliced onions and cook them over medium heat until they are softened and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should become golden brown and sweet.

2. **Add the flour**: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the gravy.

3. **Add the broth**: Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the gravy to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

4. **Return the patties to the skillet**: Once the gravy has thickened, carefully return the cooked patties to the skillet. Spoon the gravy over the patties, and let them simmer in the gravy for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

#### Step 4: Serve the Salisbury Steak
Once the patties are cooked through and coated in the rich, savory gravy, they’re ready to serve. You can serve your Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables. The combination of the tender beef patties and the flavorful gravy is sure to be a hit with your family or guests.

### Variations of Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

While the classic Salisbury steak is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to mix things up or adapt the recipe to your personal tastes. Here are a few ideas for variations of this classic dish:

#### 1. **Mushroom Salisbury Steak**
For mushroom lovers, adding sautéed mushrooms to the gravy is a great way to enhance the dish. The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the rich beef and gravy perfectly. Simply sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions in the skillet before adding the flour to make the gravy. This version is a favorite for those who enjoy the combination of beef and mushrooms.

#### 2. **Cheese Stuffed Salisbury Steak**
Take your Salisbury steak to the next level by stuffing the patties with cheese. You can use **cheddar**, **mozzarella**, or even **blue cheese** for a rich, gooey center. Simply form the patties around a cube of cheese, ensuring that the cheese is fully enclosed in the meat. When cooked, the cheese will melt inside, creating a delicious surprise when you cut into the steak.

#### 3. **Vegetarian Salisbury Steak**
For those who prefer a meatless option, you can make a **vegetarian version** of Salisbury steak using plant-based meat substitutes like **Beyond Meat** or **Impossible Meat**. These products provide a similar texture and flavor to ground beef, making them a great alternative for a vegetarian Salisbury steak. You can follow the same recipe for the gravy and patty preparation, but use plant-based ingredients in place of the beef.

#### 4. **Spicy Salisbury Steak**
For a little extra kick, add some **cayenne pepper** or **hot sauce** to the meat mixture. You can also use **jalapeños** or other spicy peppers to add heat to the dish. The combination of savory beef and spicy heat will add an exciting twist to the classic Salisbury steak.

### Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak

1. **Use the right beef**: Choose **80/20 ground beef** for the best flavor and texture. Leaner beef can result in dry patties, while fattier beef may be too greasy.

2. **Don’t overwork the meat**: When mixing the meat and seasonings, be sure not to overmix. Overworking the meat can lead to tough patties. Mix just until everything is incorporated.

3. **Cook the patties evenly**: Make sure the patties are cooked evenly on both sides. A nice sear on the outside will help lock in moisture and flavor.

4. **Taste the gravy**: As the gravy simmers, taste it and adjust the seasoning. A splash of **Worcestershire sauce** or **soy sauce** can add extra depth to the gravy.

5. **Make it ahead**: Salisbury steak can be made in advance and reheated. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making it a great dish for meal prepping or serving at a dinner party.

### Conclusion

Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak is a dish that has stood the test of time, continuing to bring comfort and satisfaction to family tables across the country. With its tender beef patties,

savory gravy, and classic side dish pairings, this meal is perfect for any occasion. By following these steps and tips, you can create a hearty, delicious Salisbury steak that is sure to become a family favorite.