How to Cook Salisbury Steak in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide
Salisbury steak is a classic American dish made from ground beef, seasoned with salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs, and typically served with a rich and savory gravy. While traditionally cooked on the stovetop or in a skillet, cooking Salisbury steak in the oven is a great way to achieve even cooking and a tender finish. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook Salisbury steak in the oven with ease and delicious results.
Basic Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the basic ingredients and equipment you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup beef broth
1 cup water
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Oven-safe skillet or tray
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s start cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and flour. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a rectangular patty. Make sure the edges are smooth and the patties are uniform in size.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Place the patties on a sheet pan or oven-safe tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the melted butter over the patties, making sure they’re fully coated.
Step 4: Bake the Patties
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sheet pan or tray in the oven and bake the patties for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked to your desired level of doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Gravy
While the patties are baking, you can prepare the gravy. In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the patties from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the Salisbury steak patties with the prepared gravy spooned over the top. You can also serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or eggs.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind:
- Don’t overcook the patties: Overcooking can make the patties dry and tough. Aim for a slightly pink center for the most tender results.
- Use a cast-iron skillet: If you prefer a crispy crust on your patties, cook them in a cast-iron skillet instead of a baking dish.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your Salisbury steak, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Make it a skillet dinner: Cook the patties in a skillet with some oil and butter instead of baking them. This will give you a nice crust on the bottom of the patties.
Conclusion
Cooking Salisbury steak in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this classic dish. By following these easy steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a tender and flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So the next time you’re craving a hearty and comforting dinner, give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful taste of Salisbury steak from the oven!