Salisbury Steak Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries: A Hearty Classic with a Flavorful Twist
Rich onion-infused patties and crispy wedges bring homestyle comfort to your table.
Salisbury Steak Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries: Homestyle Comfort Food Reinvented
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort meal, look no further than Salisbury steak burgers with sweet potato fries. This dish combines the rich, savory flavor of classic Salisbury steak, transforms it into a casual burger experience, and pairs it with crispy, golden sweet potato fries for the perfect homestyle dinner. Inspired by retro favorites, this recipe delivers nostalgia, hearty flavors, and easy weeknight appeal in every bite.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Burgers
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
- Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Comparing Classic and Burger Styles
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction: The Origins & Charm of Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak originated in the late nineteenth century, named after Dr. J.H. Salisbury who promoted ground beef as a healthy staple. Traditionally, it’s seasoned ground beef shaped into steak-like patties, seared and simmered in a rich brown onion gravy, then served over mashed potatoes. Today’s version—Salisbury steak burgers—takes those same beloved flavors, adds modern burger flair, and elevates the experience by pairing with sweet potato fries—an irresistibly sweet and crispy complement.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salisbury Steak Burger Patties:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (plus extra for gravy)
- 1 tablespoon powdered beef base or crumbled bouillon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon seasoning sauce (e.g., Kitchen Bouquet, optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sweet Potato Fries:
- 2 to 3 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional for serving: Burger buns, chopped parsley, cheese slices, pickles, salad greens.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Make the Salisbury Steak Burgers
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, beef base, salt, pepper, and egg (if using). Knead until well mixed.
- Divide into 4–6 oval-shaped patties, pressing lines across each with your fingers for traditional “steak” look.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat.
- Place patties in the skillet; cook 4–5 minutes per side, turning once, until browned and cooked through.
- Remove patties and set aside, covering to keep warm.
Prepare the Onion Gravy
- Add sliced onions to the same skillet. Cook, stirring, until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce heat to medium; add beef broth, ketchup, seasoning sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Optional: Mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold broth to make a smooth slurry; stir into gravy for thickness.
- Simmer until gravy is glossy and slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
- Return burgers to the skillet, spoon gravy over the top, letting patties rewarm for 2–3 minutes.
Make the Sweet Potato Fries
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into fries, about ½-inch thick.
- Toss fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–35 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and browned at the edges.
Tips for Perfect Salisbury Steak Burgers
- Shape Matters: Form patties with distinct grooves or lines to mimic classic Salisbury steak appearance—this also helps capture gravy.
- Mix Well but Don’t Overwork: Knead the mixture gently; overworking ground beef can make burgers tough.
- Flavorful Gravy: Onions play a key role; sauté until deeply golden for maximum flavor.
- Thickening Options: If you prefer a thicker gravy, the cornstarch slurry works wonders. Alternatively, simmer longer for natural reduction.
- Don’t Skip Resting: Let burgers rest in the gravy a few minutes before serving—it deepens their flavor and moisture.
What others are reading
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Bun or No Bun? Serve Salisbury steak patties as burgers on soft rolls, or keep them classic over mashed potatoes.
- Toppings: Add sliced pickles, cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh greens for extra complexity.
- Meal Prep: Both patties and gravy can be made ahead and reheated; sweet potato fries are best fresh, but can be crisped up in an oven.
- Healthier Swap: Substitute ground turkey for beef (add ¼ cup more breadcrumbs for moisture).
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and mushroom gravy for a meatless twist.
Classic Salisbury Steak vs. Burger Style: At a Glance
| Feature | Classic Salisbury Steak | Burger Style Salisbury Steak |
|---|---|---|
| Main Meat | Ground beef, classic oval patty | Ground beef, burger-shaped patty |
| Gravy | Rich onion/mushroom brown gravy | Onion gravy (sometimes with mushrooms) |
| Serving Style | Over mashed potatoes | On burger buns or with fries |
| Texture | Soft, fork-tender | Hearty, hand-held |
| Accompaniments | Mashed potatoes, peas | Sweet potato fries |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Salisbury steak burgers in advance?
A: Yes. Prepare and cook the patties and onion gravy up to two days ahead. Store separately, then reheat gently in the gravy before serving for best texture and moisture.
Q: How can I keep my sweet potato fries crispy?
A: Cut fries evenly and avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet. Toss fries halfway through baking and finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes for extra crispness.
Q: What bread works best for burger-style Salisbury steak?
A: Soft sandwich rolls, brioche buns, or potato buns are ideal—they soak up gravy without falling apart.
Q: Can I substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Yukon Golds or russets make excellent fries; adjust seasoning to your taste.
Q: Is there a gluten-free version?
A: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers in the patties, and ensure your beef base is gluten-free.
Nutrition Highlights (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 490 (with burger, gravy, and fries)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 24g
Note: Nutritional content will vary based on portion size and ingredients. Adjust recipes for dietary needs.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftover patties and gravy in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the gravy thickens.
- Fries can be refreshed under a hot broiler for 2–3 minutes, but are best eaten fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Salisbury steak burger recipe with homemade sweet potato fries brings together an American classic and modern homestyle convenience. Enjoy the luscious onion gravy, savory patties, and the crispy comfort of sweet potato fries as a family-friendly dinner everyone will request again. Adapt for buns, sides, or toppings—make it yours!
References
- https://www.foodfanatic.com/recipes/pioneer-woman-salisbury-steak-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0OfDOdPE3I
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlHnCNEHLgk
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a43805381/salisbury-steak-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32627401/salisbury-steak-burgers-with-sweet-potato-fries-recipe/
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