Instant Pot Salisbury Steak: A Hearty and Quick Comfort Meal
Salisbury Steak has been a staple of comfort food for generations. The combination of juicy beef patties smothered in rich gravy served with mashed potatoes or rice is hard to beat. But cooking Salisbury steak the traditional way can be time-consuming. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in. With this modern kitchen appliance, you can have a delicious meal ready in less than an hour, with minimal prep and cleanup.
In this article, we’ll walk through a step-by-step guide on how to make Instant Pot Salisbury Steak. We’ll also discuss variations, nutritional information, and answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for a crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Salisbury Steak
To make Salisbury Steak in the Instant Pot, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef (85% lean) or a mix of ground beef and pork
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- Eggs (to bind the patties)
- Onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, and thyme for seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce
- Beef broth or stock
- Mushrooms (optional, but highly recommended for the gravy)
- Onions (for added flavor in the gravy)
- Cornstarch or brown gravy mix to thicken the sauce
Optional Add-Ins:
- Mustard for a slight tang in the gravy
- Sour cream for a creamy texture
- Bacon bits for a savory touch
By using these ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s quick and easy. For a similar comfort meal, check out this Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Salisbury Steak
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4-6 people
- Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, and thyme. Mix gently and form the mixture into oval-shaped patties.
- Sear the Patties: Turn the Instant Pot on to the sauté mode. Add a tablespoon of oil and brown the patties on each side for about 2 minutes. This step adds extra flavor but is optional.
- Remove Patties and Sauté Onions & Mushrooms: Once the patties are browned, remove them from the pot. Add the chopped onions and mushrooms to the Instant Pot and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Prepare the Gravy: Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and any other desired seasonings (such as mustard or sour cream) to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Cook Under Pressure: Place the patties back into the pot, layering them over the onions and mushrooms. Secure the Instant Pot lid, set it to high pressure, and cook for 18 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
- Thicken the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the gravy and sauté for a few minutes until it thickens.
- Serve: Serve the Salisbury steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
For another delicious, easy-to-make dinner, try this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.
Variations of Instant Pot Salisbury Steak
One of the best things about Salisbury Steak is its versatility. Below are a few variations you can try to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Low-Carb/Keto Salisbury Steak: Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Serve with mashed cauliflower or roasted vegetables instead of mashed potatoes.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground beef or a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for the patties. You can also use vegetable broth for the gravy.
- Adding Protein: Add cooked bacon bits or sausage into the gravy for an extra layer of flavor. You can also mix ground pork into the beef patties for added richness.
- Gluten-Free Salisbury Steak: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free gravy mix to make the dish safe for those with gluten intolerances.
For those looking to experiment with flavor, consider trying the No-Peek Beef Tips for a similar beefy and hearty experience.
Nutritional Information and Tips for a Healthier Dish
While Salisbury Steak is undeniably delicious, it’s important to keep an eye on nutritional content. Here’s a rough breakdown for a serving of Instant Pot Salisbury Steak:
- Calories: 350-400 per serving (depending on the size of the patties and the gravy)
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbs: 15-20 grams (more if served with potatoes or rice)
To make the dish healthier:
- Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to cut down on fat.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt in the gravy for fewer calories and more protein.
- Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the salt content.
For more information on healthy cooking tips, check out this helpful guide on Nutritional Information for Ground Beef Dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions based on what people also search for on Google:
Can I make Salisbury Steak without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make Salisbury Steak on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. On the stovetop, brown the patties and then simmer them in the gravy for about 25 minutes. In a slow cooker, cook the patties in the gravy on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Can I use frozen patties for Salisbury Steak?
You can use frozen patties, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Add 5-7 minutes to the pressure cooking time if using frozen patties. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
To prevent patties from falling apart, make sure to use enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs. Don’t overwork the meat when forming the patties, as this can make them too tough.
Can I use chicken or turkey for Salisbury Steak?
Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey as a substitute for beef. However, these meats are leaner, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or butter to the mixture to prevent the patties from becoming too dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat: Overworking the ground beef can lead to tough, dry patties. Mix just until combined.
- Not Browning the Patties: Browning adds flavor and texture to the patties. Don’t skip this step, even if it takes a few extra minutes.
- Using Too Much Liquid in the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, it can overpower the dish. Start with a small amount of broth, and add more as needed.
Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Salisbury Steak
- Searing the Patties: Searing the patties before pressure cooking helps lock in flavor and gives them a nice crust.
- Thickening the Gravy: To get a rich, thick gravy, don’t be afraid to use cornstarch or flour. Stirring in a slurry during the sauté stage will ensure your gravy isn’t too thin.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the steak over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a classic combo. For a lighter side, try steamed green beans or a simple side salad.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Salisbury Steak is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can create a hearty, comforting meal in less than an hour. Plus, with the variations and tips mentioned above, you can customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re new to the Instant Pot or a seasoned user, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
For more comforting meals, check out the Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes or dive into other comforting one-pot dishes.