Skillet Salisbury Steaks with Potatoes: A Hearty One-Pan Classic
Warm up your kitchen with the comforting aroma of Skillet Salisbury Steaks with Potatoes, a timeless dish that combines juicy, savory beef patties with tender baby potatoes in a rich, flavorful gravy. This one-pan meal is the epitome of comfort food, blending the nostalgic flavors of a classic diner-style Salisbury steak with the heartiness of a home-cooked meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and sure to satisfy the whole family. With just a handful of pantry staples and a trusty skillet, you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into this soul-warming recipe!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salisbury Steak Patties:
- 1¼ lbs (550g) lean ground beef
- ⅓ cup (40g) plain or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup (80ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- 1½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
For the Skillet and Gravy:
- 2½ tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2½ cups (500g) baby potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 1¼ cups (300ml) low-sodium beef broth
- 1½ tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp cold water (for thickening)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary or ½ tsp dried rosemary, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salisbury Steak Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder (if using), salt, black pepper, and parsley (if using). Use your hands or a fork to gently mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender. Divide the mixture into 4–5 equal portions and shape into oval or round patties, about ½-inch thick. Set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sear the Patties
Heat 2½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the patties and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms. The patties don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they’ll finish cooking in the gravy later. Carefully remove the patties to a clean plate and set aside, keeping the skillet on the heat.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Potatoes
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized. If the skillet seems dry, add a splash of oil or a small pat of butter. Add the halved baby potatoes, cut-side down, and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to develop a golden edge and soften slightly. The potatoes will continue cooking in the next step, so they don’t need to be fully tender yet.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them among the potatoes and onions. Pour in the beef broth, add the rosemary sprig (or dried rosemary), and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the patties are cooked through.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir the slurry into the skillet, along with the Dijon mustard (if using), and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring gently, until the gravy thickens to a rich, glossy consistency. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Remove the rosemary sprig if used.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Salisbury steaks, potatoes, and gravy to a serving platter or serve directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves or chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, ensuring each plate gets a generous spoonful of the savory gravy.
Tips for the Perfect Skillet Salisbury Steaks
- Choose the Right Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to balance flavor and texture without excessive grease. For a richer taste, you can mix in a small amount of ground pork or sausage.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of soy sauce to the broth for extra depth in the gravy. A pinch of smoked paprika in the patty mixture can also add a subtle smoky note.
- Potato Prep: If your baby potatoes are large, quarter them to ensure even cooking. For a creamier texture, try Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which hold their shape well in the skillet.
- Make It Ahead: The patties can be formed and refrigerated up to a day in advance. You can also prepare the entire dish ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to loosen the gravy.
- Vegetable Variations: Add sliced mushrooms or diced carrots to the skillet with the onions for extra heartiness. Mushrooms, in particular, soak up the gravy beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Skillet Salisbury Steaks with Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out the plate:
- Classic Comfort: Serve with a side of buttery mashed peas or steamed green beans for a traditional diner-inspired meal.
- Light and Fresh: Balance the richness with a crisp side salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette or a cucumber-dill salad.
- Bread Basket: Offer warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Cozy Dinner Vibes: Pair with a glass of red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, or a refreshing iced tea for a non-alcoholic option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Skillet Salisbury Steaks with Potatoes recipe is a winner for its simplicity, bold flavors, and one-pan convenience. The juicy, seasoned patties, tender potatoes, and luscious gravy come together in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes, whether you add extra veggies, tweak the seasoning, or serve it with your favorite sides. Plus, the minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and the company of those around your table.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the gravy.
- Freezing: The cooked patties and gravy can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Freeze without the potatoes for best results, as they can become mushy when thawed. Reheat in a skillet with fresh potatoes and additional broth.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the patties and chop the vegetables a day ahead to streamline cooking. Store separately in the fridge until ready to cook.
