Campbell’s Soup Salisbury Steak Recipe

If you’ve ever reached for a can of Campbell’s Soup, you know that comfort food doesn’t get much easier-or more satisfying-than that. Among their many varieties, Salisbury Steak stands out as a classic favorite. Rich, savory, and delightfully hearty, this dish is the epitome of home-cooked goodness, all wrapped up in a convenient package. But here’s the thing: as convenient as canned goods are, they often lack that homemade touch. That’s where this recipe comes in! We’re taking Campbell’s Soup’s iconic Salisbury Steak and bringing it to life with a few simple tweaks that elevate the flavors, turning an easy dish into a truly satisfying meal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make Salisbury Steak from scratch using Campbell’s Soup as the base. From the essential ingredients to expert tips, you’ll have everything you need to make this comfort food dish your own. Ready to dig in? Let’s dive in!

Campbell’s Soup Salisbury Steak Recipe

Salisbury Steak is a dish that’s both classic and approachable, offering a blend of tender beef patties smothered in a savory gravy. What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity: using Campbell’s Soup’s rich gravy as a foundation makes preparing the dish not only easy but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for one or making a meal for the whole family, this Salisbury Steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Needed

For the Beef Patties:

  • Ground beef – 1 lb (you can go for lean or regular, depending on your preference)
  • Breadcrumbs – ½ cup (they help to hold the patties together)
  • Egg – 1 large (binds the ingredients and adds richness)
  • Onion powder – 1 tsp (adds a savory base flavor)
  • Garlic powder – 1 tsp (a subtle kick of flavor)
  • Salt – ½ tsp (to taste)
  • Black pepper – ¼ tsp (for a hint of spice)
  • Worcestershire sauce – 1 tbsp (adds a depth of umami)

For the Gravy and Sauce:

  • Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – 1 can (this is the magic ingredient for a creamy, savory sauce)
  • Beef broth – 1 cup (thin out the soup to make a gravy that’s pourable)
  • Onion, finely chopped – 1 small (adds texture and flavor to the gravy)
  • Butter – 2 tbsp (for sautéing and adding richness)
  • Salt & pepper – to taste (enhance the flavors as needed)

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get into the actual cooking process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have yourself a mouthwatering meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare (but it really only takes about 30 minutes!).

  1. Make The Beef Patties

    • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
    • Mix until everything is well combined but don’t overwork the meat, as that can make the patties tough.
    • Form the mixture into 4 to 6 evenly-sized patties.
  2. Cook The Patties

    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the beef patties.
    • Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re browned and cooked through (an internal temperature of 160°F for beef).
    • Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  3. Prepare The Gravy

    • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
    • Add the can of Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that’s flavor right there!).
    • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken slightly.
  4. Combine

    • Return the beef patties to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Cover and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    • Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe serves a specific purpose, contributing to the flavor, texture, and richness of the dish. Let’s break down why each element works so well:

  • Ground Beef: The base of the Salisbury steak, ground beef provides the necessary protein and a juicy, tender texture. You can choose a leaner or fattier ground beef depending on your preference for richness.
  • Breadcrumbs & Egg: These two ingredients help bind the beef together, ensuring the patties hold their shape while also adding a touch of lightness.
  • Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the secret weapon in the recipe. The soup adds a creamy, savory base to the gravy and complements the beef perfectly. It’s also incredibly convenient, making the dish so much easier to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
  • Beef Broth: Adds liquid to the gravy, making it smooth and pourable. It also deepens the overall meaty flavor.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This brings a boost of umami, enhancing the savory notes in both the beef patties and the gravy.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Salisbury Steak turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t overmix the beef: When combining the ground beef with the other ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can make the patties dense and tough.
  • Form uniform patties: To ensure even cooking, try to make your patties roughly the same size. This way, they’ll cook at the same rate.
  • Simmer for maximum flavor: Let the patties simmer in the gravy for at least 10 minutes. This will give them a chance to absorb the rich flavors from the sauce and make them extra tender.
  • Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to taste the gravy as you cook it. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make a huge difference in enhancing the flavor.
  • Add a dash of cream: For an extra-rich gravy, consider stirring in a little heavy cream at the end for a smooth, velvety texture.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about Salisbury Steak is how customizable it is. Here are a few variations you can try to switch things up:

  • Mushroom Lovers: Add fresh sliced mushrooms to the gravy to enhance the earthy flavor of the dish. This pairs especially well with the Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup.
  • Cheesy Salisbury Steak: Melt a slice of cheese (Swiss or cheddar works best) on top of each patty before serving. This adds a gooey, rich layer of flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers as a substitute for traditional breadcrumbs, making this recipe accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Smoky Variation: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the beef patty mixture for a slightly smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich gravy.

Final Words

Salisbury Steak is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s hearty, satisfying, and has a way of making you feel right at home, no matter where you are. Using Campbell’s Soup as the base for the gravy not only saves time but also ensures that every bite is bursting with comforting flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or enjoying a solo meal, this dish is an easy way to deliver a homemade, delicious dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

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