If you’re seeking a quick yet hearty dinner option that combines savory flavors and minimal preparation, salisbury steak easy canned tomatoes might just be your new go-to meal. This classic comfort food is known for its tender beef patties paired with a flavorful gravy, making it a delightful dish for any time of year. The addition of canned tomatoes offers a rich, tangy element that complements the savory depth of the beef, making for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
This recipe is not only simple but also budget-friendly, with ingredients that can be found in most kitchens. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish can be put together quickly, ensuring a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable dish, step by step, while making the most of canned tomatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients to ensure everything is ready for preparation:
- 1 pound ground beef – The main protein for your Salisbury steak, which will form the base of your dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Onions provide a base for flavor and aroma, adding a layer of sweetness when sauteed.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the savory depth of the dish and balances the overall taste.
- 1 egg – This binds the beef mixture together, helping to form tender patties.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Breadcrumbs help to keep the patties moist and tender.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a bit of umami and tanginess, complementing the beef.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sauteing the onions and garlic, imparting flavor and helping with cooking.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced canned tomatoes – This will serve as the base for the savory sauce that accompanies the patties.
- 1/4 cup beef broth – Adds richness to the gravy, intensifying the flavor profile of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – A hint of sweetness to balance out the acidity from the canned tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds a herbaceous, slightly peppery flavor to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – This herb imparts a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the tomatoes and beef.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening) – Helps to thicken the gravy to a rich, smooth consistency.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish when serving.
Preparing the Salisbury Steak Patties
Step 1: Preparing the Meat Mixture
Start by placing your 1 pound ground beef in a large mixing bowl. Ground beef is the classic choice for Salisbury steak, offering just the right balance of fat and flavor. Add the finely chopped 1 small onion and 1 clove garlic, which will infuse the patties with savory depth.
Crack 1 egg into the bowl to help bind the ingredients together. Add 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, which will give the patties a tender texture and prevent them from being too dense. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, to taste, ensuring that each bite is flavorful. For an added layer of richness, stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, a quintessential ingredient in Salisbury steak that enhances the umami flavor.
Once all the ingredients are combined, gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can result in tough patties. Shape the mixture into oval or round patties, about 1/2 inch thick, to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Cooking the Patties
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. The caramelized edges of the patties will provide a rich flavor that will be absorbed into the gravy later.
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. You’ll use the same skillet to make the gravy, so leave the drippings in the pan to add flavor to the sauce.
Making the Gravy with Canned Tomatoes
Step 3: Sauteing the Aromatics
In the same skillet, with the remaining drippings, add the chopped onion and garlic. Saute the onions over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. This will build the base of the gravy, releasing the natural sweetness of the onions and the fragrant aroma of garlic.
Step 4: Creating the Sauce
Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the 1 can (14.5 oz) diced canned tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine, letting the tomatoes simmer and break down slightly. The canned tomatoes provide acidity and moisture, which will balance the richness of the beef. Add 1/4 cup beef broth to deepen the flavor and ensure the gravy has the right consistency.
To balance the tanginess of the tomatoes, stir in 1 tablespoon brown sugar. This subtle sweetness will mellow out the acidity from the tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor. Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil for an herby lift. These herbs complement both the beef and the canned tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors.
Step 5: Thickening the Gravy
To thicken the sauce, sprinkle 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour into the pan, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The flour will absorb the liquid and create a smooth, velvety texture for the gravy. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a rich, glossy finish.
Step 6: Returning the Patties to the Pan
Once the gravy has thickened, return the cooked Salisbury steak patties to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over each patty, ensuring that they are well-coated. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for about 10 minutes. This step allows the patties to absorb some of the flavors from the sauce, making them more tender and flavorful.
Serving Your Salisbury Steak Easy Canned Tomatoes
After the patties have simmered in the gravy, your salisbury steak easy canned tomatoes is ready to serve. The savory beef patties, combined with the rich, flavorful tomato-based gravy, are the perfect comfort food. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, if desired, for a touch of color and freshness.
Serve your Salisbury steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or even over a bed of egg noodles to soak up all that delicious gravy. The combination of the juicy beef, savory onions, tangy tomatoes, and the perfect balance of seasonings will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Tips for a Perfect Salisbury Steak Easy Canned Tomatoes
- Choosing the Right Beef: Use 1 pound ground beef with a fat content of about 80-85%. This will ensure the patties remain juicy and flavorful.
- Mixing the Patties: Be gentle when mixing the ground beef with the other ingredients. Overworking the mixture can lead to tough patties.
- Gravy Consistency: If you prefer a thinner gravy, you can add a little more beef broth or water. If you want it thicker, use more flour or allow it to simmer for longer to reduce the sauce.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices such as thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
The salisbury steak easy canned tomatoes recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a simple yet flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily prepare this dish on a busy weeknight or for a cozy weekend dinner. The canned tomatoes not only contribute to the sauce’s tangy richness but also bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory beef. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that is both comforting and delicious, without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!