Turkey Salisbury Steaks and Mushroom Gravy
Table of Contents
As the soft golden glow of the afternoon sun filters through my kitchen window, I’m reminded of those cozy evenings spent with family, gathered around the table with warmth, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of home-cooked meals. Today, I invite you to join me in creating a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming: Turkey Salisbury Steaks and Mushroom Gravy. This recipe wraps you in nostalgia, much like an old family quilt, offering comfort with every bite.
There’s something magical about the way these savory steaks transform a simple dinner into a cherished memory. The turkey, tender and juicy, is enriched with the earthy goodness of mushrooms, and the silky, savory gravy ties it all together — it’s the kind of meal that beckons you to slow down and savor the moment. Every mouthful is a reminder of the love that goes into preparing a meal for those you care about. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that even on the busiest of days, you can bring a little bit of homemade magic to your table without feeling overwhelmed. And the best part? This dish is a healthier twist on a classic, making it a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any night of the week.
So pull up a chair, grab a wooden spoon, and let’s dive into the warmth and simplicity of this family favorite.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Turkey Salisbury Steaks and Mushroom Gravy bring a comforting twist to your dinner routine, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or a simple family dinner. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
Nostalgic Comfort: This dish harks back to the classic comfort foods we grew up loving, but with a lighter, healthier twist using turkey instead of beef. It’s a nod to traditional flavors while being mindful of modern dietary preferences, offering a delicious balance between indulgence and health.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Even if you’re new to cooking, this dish is designed to be approachable and rewarding, ensuring a stress-free experience with a scrumptious outcome.
Versatile Appeal: Whether you’re serving picky eaters or gourmet enthusiasts, the rich flavors and hearty appeal of this dish are sure to satisfy all palates. Its adaptability allows you to customize the recipe with additional spices or herbs, ensuring it meets the preferences of everyone at the table.
Nutritious Delight: Packed with lean protein and the wholesome goodness of mushrooms, this dish doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Turkey is a great source of essential nutrients like selenium, B vitamins, and phosphorus, while mushrooms contribute important antioxidants.
Family Bonding: Cooking this meal together provides a wonderful opportunity to bond with family or friends, creating memories that are as delightful as the meal itself. Sharing the kitchen space can be a fun and engaging activity where everyone can contribute to the meal preparation, strengthening family ties.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up these delightful bites, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade cooking:
- Large Bowl: Perfect for mixing the turkey mixture without making a mess. A larger bowl makes it easier to combine ingredients thoroughly, ensuring each patty is evenly flavored.
- Non-Stick Skillet: Essential for cooking the patties to a perfect golden brown. A non-stick surface helps reduce the need for excess oil, making the dish healthier and easier to clean up.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Ensures your turkey patties are cooked safely and thoroughly. It’s a small tool that offers big peace of mind by confirming that your patties reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the mushroom gravy to perfection. A wooden spoon is gentle on your cookware and provides a good grip for stirring thickening gravies.
- Plate: Handy for keeping the turkey patties warm while you finish the gravy. Covering the plate with foil helps retain heat and moisture, keeping your patties juicy until they’re served.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
Salisbury Steaks
- 1 pound Ground Turkey (85/15 or 93/7)
- 1 Garlic Clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Ketchup
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- ½ tablespoon Steak Sauce (we used A-1)
- 1 Egg
- ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 2-3 tablespoons Oil (use a neutral flavorless oil with a high smoke point, we used canola oil)
Mushroom Gravy
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 Medium Onion, sliced about ¼ inch thick (use a yellow or white onion)
- 8 ounces White Button Mushrooms, sliced about ¼ inch thick
- 2 tablespoons Flour
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- ½ tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- ½ teaspoon Salt (plus extra if needed at the end, we use kosher salt)
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
Add the ground turkey, salt, pepper, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, steak sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs to a large bowl. Mix together until all ingredients are incorporated. It’s important to mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to dense patties.
Separate the ground turkey mixture into 4 patties. Shape each patty into an oval shape. Place the patties on a baking sheet or plate. The oval shape is traditional for Salisbury steaks and fits well in the skillet.
Heat the oil in a large, deep, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the turkey patties. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Browning adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.
Remove the skillet from heat, lower the burner to medium-low, and transfer the patties to a plate. Keep warm by covering with foil. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and keeps the patties juicy.
Drain excess oil from the skillet, then add butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add onions and mushrooms, cooking for 4-5 minutes while stirring. The onions should become translucent, and the mushrooms should soften, releasing their moisture.
Add flour to the onions and mushrooms, stirring to combine, and cook for 1-2 minutes. The flour will thicken the gravy as it cooks, so ensure it’s well combined with the vegetables.
Raise the heat to medium and add chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir and scrape the skillet bottom gently. This deglazing process captures all the flavorful bits from cooking the patties.
Once simmering, return the patties to the pan and bring back to a simmer. Ensuring the gravy is bubbling gently helps the patties absorb the flavors.
Lower heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and flipping the steaks at least twice. This gentle simmering cooks the patties through and marries the flavors.
Uncover for the last 5 minutes if needed to thicken the gravy. Ensure the internal temperature of the steaks is at least 165°F. Adjust salt as needed. You can add extra broth if the gravy becomes too thick.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 15 minutes • Cooking Time: 40 minutes • Total Time: 55 minutes • Calories: 320 • Servings: 4
Note: For an extra savory touch, add a splash more Worcestershire sauce to the gravy before serving. This can enhance the umami flavors and add a richer profile to the dish.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These Turkey Salisbury Steaks and Mushroom Gravy not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
Ground Turkey: A lean protein that’s lower in fat compared to beef, perfect for a healthier meal option. It’s also a great source of tryptophan, which can help promote good sleep and mood regulation.
Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, they add depth and umami to the gravy. Mushrooms are also a great source of selenium, an essential mineral for immune support.
Onions: Provide a natural sweetness and are a great source of vitamin C and fiber. They also contain quercetin, a potent antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and crispy, they help bind the patties while keeping them tender. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, panko adds a lightness that can make the patties feel less heavy.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a complex, tangy flavor that elevates the dish. This sauce is a blend of vinegar, molasses, and spices, offering a sweet and savory balance that enhances the overall taste profile.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
These Turkey Salisbury Steaks are versatile companions to various sides and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, they soak up the gravy beautifully. You can enhance them with garlic or herbs for added flavor.
Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, they add a healthy, vibrant contrast. Toss them with a bit of lemon zest and olive oil for brightness.
Buttered Egg Noodles: A classic pairing, perfect for capturing every drop of gravy. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Caesar Salad: Offers a refreshing crunch and complements the warm, savory steaks. The crispness of romaine lettuce and the tangy dressing provide a nice counterbalance to the hearty main dish.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
Once you’ve enjoyed this delicious meal, storing leftovers is a breeze. Simply place the turkey steaks and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the gravy’s silky texture. Transform leftovers into a new meal by shredding the turkey and serving it over a bed of rice or inside a warm sandwich roll — easy peasy, and just as delicious!
For freezing, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, ensuring they are heated all the way through for safety.
As the last bite of Turkey Salisbury Steak disappears from your plate, I hope you’re left with a full heart and a satisfied smile. Cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s a love language, a way to connect and create memories with those who mean the most. Thank you for joining me in my kitchen today, where the warmth of home-cooked meals fills the air and the heart. Until next time, happy cooking!
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Turkey Salisbury Steaks and Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the ground turkey, salt, pepper, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, steak sauce, egg and breadcrumbs to a large bowl. Mix together until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Separate the ground turkey mixture into 4 patties. Shape each patty into an oval shape. Place the patties on a baking sheet or plate.
- Heat the oil in a large, deep, non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is very hot, add the turkey patties. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are browned.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and lower the burner to medium-low. Remove the patties and place them on a plate. Keep them warm by covering with foil or placing in a warm place.
- Drain the excess oil but do not wash or wipe the skillet. Place it back over medium-low heat and add the butter. When the butter is melted, add the onions and mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add the flour to the onions and mushrooms, stir to combine, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Raise the heat to medium and add the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt and black pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- When the sauce is simmering, add the patties back to the pan. Simmer for 20 minutes, flipping the steaks at least twice.
- Uncover the skillet for the last 5 minutes of cooking to thicken the gravy further, if needed. Ensure the turkey steaks reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Taste the gravy and add salt if needed. Serve hot.
