Welcome to a culinary journey that transforms a nostalgic classic into a keto-friendly, low-carb delight: **Keto Low Carb Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy**. This recipe reimagines the beloved comfort food, crafting succulent, onion-infused patties from ground beef or turkey, generously smothered in a rich, savory brown mushroom gravy. Say goodbye to highly processed TV dinners and hello to a gourmet experience that’s simple enough for weeknight meals yet impressive enough for special occasions. Get ready to elevate your meal prep ideas with this satisfying, wholesome, and incredibly flavorful dish.
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For many of us, Salisbury steak evokes memories of classic TV dinners – a convenient, albeit often uninspiring, meal featuring a meat patty, a scoop of mashed potatoes, and a portion of corn. While those frozen meals certainly had their place in our childhoods, it’s time to introduce you to a homemade version that is infinitely more delicious, nutritious, and far less processed. Our Keto Low Carb Salisbury Steak recipe delivers all the nostalgic flavors you remember, but with a fresh, wholesome twist perfectly suited for a low-carb and ketogenic lifestyle. It’s an epic upgrade that promises to become a new family favorite!
Why is it Called Salisbury Steak? Unraveling the History
Often perceived as a “fancy hamburger,” Salisbury steak boasts a fascinating history rooted in health and dietary principles, rather than gourmet dining. It was named after Dr. James Henry Salisbury, a physician and pioneer in nutrition during the American Civil War. Dr. Salisbury advocated for a meat-centric diet, believing it could cure various ailments and promote overall health. His original Salisbury steak was essentially minced beef, sometimes with eggs and seasonings, often served with gravy, and prescribed to patients as a healthful meal.
The core difference between a Salisbury steak and a standard hamburger steak often lies in presentation and composition. While both typically use ground meat, Salisbury steaks are traditionally shaped into an oval or oblong form and often include specific seasonings, fillers (like breadcrumbs or, in our keto version, almond flour), and are always served with a rich brown gravy. Hamburger steaks, on the other hand, are usually circular, often served on a bun, and their composition can be simpler, focusing purely on ground beef. The gravy is truly what distinguishes a Salisbury steak, transforming a humble patty into a comforting, saucy dish.
Choosing Your Ground Meat for Salisbury Steak
The type of ground meat you select significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your Salisbury steak patties. For patties, burgers, or meatballs, I consistently opt for ground chuck beef. Ground chuck is derived from the front shoulder of the cow and is known for its ideal fat-to-lean ratio, typically around 80/20. This higher fat content ensures a more flavorful and juicy patty that won’t dry out during cooking.
Understanding the distinction between ground beef and ground chuck is helpful. Ground chuck comes from a specific, single cut of beef – the chuck primal – known for its rich marbling and robust flavor. In contrast, “ground beef” (often labeled as just “hamburger meat”) can be a blend of leftover trimmings from various cuts after steaks and roasts have been processed. While still usable, ground beef can be leaner and less consistent in flavor and texture, which may result in drier patties.
If you’re looking for an alternative, ground turkey can also be used for Salisbury steak, as mentioned in the recipe’s introduction. When using ground turkey, especially leaner varieties, you might want to add a touch more olive oil or butter to the pan to ensure the patties remain moist. Regardless of your choice, aim for quality ground meat for the best taste and texture in your homemade Salisbury steak.
It’s also worth noting that other cuts like cube steak and round steak are entirely different. Cube steak, for instance, is typically a top round or top sirloin cut that has been mechanically tenderized by pounding, often resulting in a distinct “cubed” pattern on its surface. While delicious in its own right, it’s not suitable for forming Salisbury steak patties.
How to Make Keto Salisbury Steak Patties
Creating perfect keto Salisbury steak patties is a straightforward process that begins with combining high-quality ground chuck (or turkey) with a selection of flavorful ingredients. The goal is to achieve a tender, well-seasoned patty that holds its shape and browns beautifully.
- **Prepare the Meat Mixture:** In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground chuck beef (or turkey) with blanched almond flour, Worcestershire sauce, a beaten egg, minced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. The almond flour acts as a binder and helps keep the patties low-carb, while the egg adds moisture and helps everything adhere. The minced onion and Italian seasoning infuse the meat with aromatic depth, a signature of classic Salisbury steak.
- **Form the Patties:** Using clean hands, gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough patties. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and carefully form them into oval-shaped patties, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. The oval shape is traditional for Salisbury steak, distinguishing it from a round hamburger.
- **Cook the Steaks:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the patties into the hot pan. Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. It’s crucial to ensure each side is fully seared before attempting to flip, as flipping too soon can cause the patties to break apart. A meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey to ensure they are safely cooked.
- **Rest the Patties:** Once cooked, remove the Salisbury steak patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the rich mushroom gravy. You can drain any excessive fat from the skillet at this point, but I often leave a small amount of the rendered grease as it adds a flavorful base for deglazing the pan for the gravy.
Crafting the Rich Keto Mushroom Gravy
The mushroom gravy is the heart and soul of this Keto Low Carb Salisbury Steak recipe, transforming simple patties into a truly comforting and complete meal. This savory sauce is built directly in the same pan where the steaks were cooked, leveraging all those delicious browned bits (fond) from the patties.
- **Deglaze and Sauté Aromatics:** After removing the patties, add a tablespoon of unsalted butter (or a bit more olive oil) to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, then use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – this process, called deglazing, adds incredible depth of flavor to your gravy. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they have softened and the mushrooms have released some of their moisture.
- **Build the Gravy Base:** Pour in the beef broth and another teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. The broth forms the liquid base of the gravy, while Worcestershire sauce adds a complex, umami kick that complements the beef perfectly. Stir everything together, continuing to deglaze the pan and incorporate all those flavorful residues. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- **Thicken the Gravy:** In a separate small bowl, take 1-2 tablespoons of the hot gravy mixture and whisk it vigorously with ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum. Xanthan gum is a powerful keto-friendly thickener that prevents lumps when properly mixed. Once a smooth, thick slurry forms, slowly pour this mixture back into the main gravy in the skillet, whisking constantly. Continue to stir over medium heat until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. It should be rich, smooth, and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- **Final Seasoning and Combine:** Taste the gravy repeatedly and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a dash more Worcestershire sauce to make it truly pop. Once the gravy is perfect, gently return the cooked Salisbury steak patties to the pan, nestling them into the mushroom gravy. Spoon the luscious gravy over the steaks, allowing them to warm through for a minute or two. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Thicken Gravy on a Keto Diet
Traditional gravies often rely on cornstarch or flour as thickening agents, which are high in carbohydrates and unsuitable for a keto diet. Thankfully, there are excellent low-carb alternatives that allow you to achieve a perfectly rich and thick gravy. My go-to keto thickener is **xanthan gum**.
Xanthan gum is a powerful polysaccharide that acts as a fantastic thickener with very little needed. It’s crucial to use it sparingly and mix it correctly to avoid a gummy texture. The best method is to create a slurry: take a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of the hot liquid from your gravy, combine it with about ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum in a separate bowl, and whisk it vigorously until smooth and thick. Then, slowly pour this slurry back into the main pot of gravy while continuously whisking. This technique prevents lumps and ensures even distribution. Xanthan gum provides a smooth, consistent thickness without adding any noticeable flavor.
While **almond flour** can sometimes be used as a thickener in other keto recipes, it doesn’t typically perform well for brown gravies in my experience. It can absorb too much liquid, change the gravy’s texture, and sometimes impart a slight nutty flavor, which isn’t always desirable for a savory brown gravy. For the best results in this Salisbury steak gravy, xanthan gum is highly recommended for its neutral flavor and superior thickening power.
Freezer and Meal Prep Tips for Convenience
This Keto Low Carb Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy is an ideal recipe for meal prepping and freezing, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade, low-carb meal on busy days without the fuss. Preparing a larger batch and freezing portions can save you significant time and effort during the week.
Freezing Instructions:
- **Cool Completely:** Before freezing, ensure the Salisbury steak patties and gravy have cooled completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation and ice crystal formation, which can affect texture.
- **Portioning:** For best results, portion the cooked Salisbury steak with gravy into individual freezer-safe containers. This allows for easy thawing and reheating of single servings. Alternatively, you can freeze the patties and gravy separately.
- **Airtight Storage:** Place the cooled portions in airtight freezer bags or containers. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can also place a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the gravy before sealing the container for extra protection.
- **Labeling:** Label each container or bag with the date and contents.
- **Storage Duration:** The Salisbury steak and gravy will last and maintain their quality in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing and Reheating:
- **Defrosting:** The safest and best way to defrost frozen Salisbury steak is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight. This allows it to thaw gradually. For quicker thawing, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- **Reheating:**
- **Stovetop:** Transfer the thawed Salisbury steak and gravy to a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently and heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy seems too thick.
- **Microwave:** For individual portions, reheat in a microwave-safe dish in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated thoroughly.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating.
What Goes Well With Salisbury Steak: Delicious Pairings
A classic Salisbury steak, especially our low-carb version, deserves equally delicious and keto-friendly side dishes. The rich, savory mushroom gravy pairs beautifully with a variety of vegetables and low-carb alternatives to traditional starches. Here are some perfect pairings to complete your meal:
- **Air Fryer Green Beans**: Crisp-tender green beans, lightly seasoned and roasted, offer a fresh, vibrant contrast to the hearty Salisbury steak. Their slight bitterness and crunch provide a wonderful balance.
- **Keto Low-Carb Cauliflower Mash**: This is the ultimate low-carb substitute for traditional mashed potatoes. Creamy, smooth, and easily soaking up that luscious mushroom gravy, cauliflower mash is an absolute must-try pairing.
- **Air Fryer Broccoli**: Roasting broccoli in the air fryer brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a delightful char. It’s a simple, healthy, and quick side that complements any savory main course.
- **Instant Pot Southern Green Beans**: For a more tender, slow-cooked feel, these Southern-style green beans offer deep flavor and a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the Salisbury steak.
- **Fried Cabbage**: Sautéed cabbage is a fantastic low-carb vegetable option that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly versatile. Its mild flavor and slight sweetness make it an excellent accompaniment.
Any steamed or roasted low-carb vegetable, such as asparagus, spinach, or Brussels sprouts, would also make an excellent choice, allowing the rich flavors of the Salisbury steak and gravy to shine.
More Keto Classic Dinner Recipes
If you’re enjoying the comfort and flavor of this Keto Salisbury Steak, you’ll surely love exploring other classic dinner recipes that have been thoughtfully adapted for a low-carb lifestyle. These dishes bring the nostalgic tastes you crave without compromising your keto goals:
- **Keto Low-Carb Meatloaf**: A hearty and comforting family favorite, reinvented with low-carb binders and rich flavors.
- **Keto Low-Carb Smothered Pork Chops**: Tender pork chops simmered in a creamy, savory sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- **Keto Low-Carb Smothered Chicken**: Juicy chicken breasts drenched in a delicious, low-carb gravy, promising a satisfying meal every time.
Popular Keto Recipes You’ll Love
Expand your low-carb recipe repertoire with these popular and highly-rated keto dishes, designed to keep your meals exciting and delicious:
- **Keto Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole**: All the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in an easy-to-make casserole form, without the carbs.
- **Keto Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole**: Enjoy the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak, transformed into a convenient and delicious casserole.
- **Keto Low-Carb Shrimp Alfredo**: A creamy, garlicky shrimp Alfredo served over zucchini noodles, offering a light yet indulgent pasta alternative.
This Salisbury Steak recipe employs a similar approach to my popular Keto Low Carb Brown Gravy recipe, ensuring a consistent and delicious low-carb gravy every time.
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Keto Low Carb Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
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Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chuck beef I use organic grass fed
- ⅓ cup blanched almond flour
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 ½ tablespoons minced onion
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Gravy
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or olive oil
- ½ cup sliced onions
- 1 cup mushrooms
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck beef with Italian Seasoning, almond flour, minced onions, salt, pepper, Worcestershire Sauce, and 1 egg in a large bowl.
- Use clean hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Form the mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties.
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and browned. Be careful to ensure each side of the beef has been fully cooked prior to flipping to prevent them from falling apart.
- Remove the cooked patties from the pan, cover, and set aside. You may drain excess fat from the skillet if desired, reserving some to help deglaze the pan.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil to the pan and use it to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the sliced onions and mushrooms to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are soft and lightly browned.
- Pour in the beef broth and another teaspoon of Worcestershire Sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well, continuing to scrape and deglaze the pan.
- In a separate small bowl, combine 1-2 tablespoons of the hot gravy mixture with the xanthan gum. Whisk vigorously until a thick slurry forms and no lumps remain.
- Add the xanthan gum mixture back to the gravy in the pan, whisking constantly. Continue to stir over medium heat until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning as needed to ensure a rich and balanced flavor.
- Return the cooked beef patties to the pan with the gravy, nestling them into the sauce. Allow them to warm through for a minute or two before serving.
Notes
This dish is freezer friendly and can be stored for up to a few months.
Nutrition (displayed with net carbs)
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Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.