Air Fryer Banquet: Salisbury Steak Perfection

Banquet's Salisbury Steak is a frozen dinner favourite for many, but can you cook it in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Air frying is a quick and easy way to cook Banquet's Salisbury Steak, and it yields a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This cooking method is also said to be superior to using a microwave as it browns the steak nicely. To cook Banquet's Salisbury Steak in an air fryer, simply peel off the plastic wrap, place the container in the air fryer basket, and heat. You can also cook the steak from frozen by removing it from its packaging and placing it directly in the air fryer.

Air fryer temperature and timing

Air frying is a great way to cook food without adding extra fat or calories. It is also a quicker method than using a traditional oven as you do not need to wait for the oven to preheat.

When cooking Salisbury steak in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the fryer to 370°F. This will give you a really hot start to air frying the patties and getting a good sear will keep the meatballs juicier.

For a 4oz serving of lean ground beef, form the mixture into 12 patties and line them on the greased air fryer basket. You may need to do this in two batches depending on your air fryer model. Cook the steaks for 6 minutes at 370°F, then flip the patties and cook for 3 additional minutes. Remove the basket from the fryer and brush BBQ sauce on all sides. Return the basket and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The internal temperature of the beef should be 160°F. Let the steak rest for 3 minutes before serving.

If you are cooking multiple batches, you may need to reduce the timing by a few minutes.

Ingredients and preparation

Ingredients

The ingredients for air fryer Salisbury steak vary depending on the recipe. Here are the ingredients for two different recipes:

Recipe 1:

• Laura's Lean 96% Lean Ground Beef
• Egg
• Bread crumbs
• Mustard
• Ketchup
• Spices
• Worcestershire sauce

Recipe 2:

• Beef
• Bread crumbs
• Egg
• Worcestershire sauce
• Onion powder
• Garlic salt
• Mustard powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Mushrooms
• Onions
• Garlic
• Butter
• Flour
• Broth

Preparation

The preparation for air fryer Salisbury steak involves mixing the steak ingredients, forming patties, making the gravy, and cooking the patties in the air fryer. Here are the steps for two different recipes:

Recipe 1:

• In a large bowl, add the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, mustard, ketchup, spices, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Using your hands, mix the beef mixture until all the ingredients are combined.
• Form 12 patties and place them in the greased air fryer basket.
• Cook the steaks for 6 minutes at 370°F.
• Flip the patties and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
• Remove the basket and brush BBQ sauce on all sides.
• Return the basket and cook for 2 more minutes.
• Allow the steak to rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Recipe 2:

• In a large bowl, mix all the steak ingredients (beef, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic salt, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper).
• Shape the mixture into 4 oval patties.
• To make the gravy, heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
• Add mushrooms and onions, cooking until golden and the excess liquid evaporates (about 5 minutes).
• Add the garlic and butter, cooking for another minute.
• Whisk the flour into the broth until smooth, and then add the broth to the mushrooms.
• Heat the mixture to a simmer and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stirring often, simmer until the gravy thickens (about 10 minutes).
• Spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the patties inside.
• Cook the patties according to your air fryer's instructions, preheating the air fryer first if desired.

Nutritional value

Although I could not find specific information on the nutritional value of Banquet Salisbury steak cooked in an air fryer, I did find some information on the nutritional value of Banquet Salisbury steak and air-fried Salisbury steak in general.

The Banquet Family Size Salisbury Steaks and Brown Gravy Frozen Meal is made with mechanically separated chicken, pork, water, beef, textured vegetable protein (soy flour, caramel colour), and breading agents. It is usually served with mashed potatoes and a side salad. The product is said to be made with "quality, mouthwatering ingredients" and is described as "savory".

Air-fried Salisbury steak is often made with beef, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic salt, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. The gravy is made with mushrooms, onions, garlic, butter, broth, and flour. This dish is described as "flavorful" and "juicy".

While both options are high in protein and fat, the Banquet Salisbury steak contains more processed ingredients and additives. The air-fried Salisbury steak uses more whole foods and fresh ingredients, which may be a healthier option.

It is important to note that cooking methods can also affect the nutritional value of a dish. Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying as it uses less oil and produces food with lower fat content.

Serving suggestions

Salisbury steak is a popular dish, often high in fat and calories, but air frying is a great way to make a healthier version without adding extra fat or calories.

There are many ways to serve these juicy patties, smothered in gravy. Here are some serving suggestions:

Appetizer

Cut the steaks into little bites and serve on a platter at a party. Provide toothpicks or party picks for guests to help themselves. You can also add a small ladle so they can spoon some gravy over the meat.

Hoagie Sandwich

Buy some soft hoagie bread and fill it with a Salisbury steak patty and a big spoonful of gravy.

With Rice or Mashed Potatoes

Serve the steaks over mashed potatoes or white rice.

With Vegetables

Try the steaks with some veggies on the side.

Freeze for Later

You can also freeze the patties either raw or cooked. To freeze raw patties, cut out small pieces of parchment paper and place one patty on each square. Put the patties on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months in a deep freezer.

Storing and reheating

While I could not find specific information on cooking Banquet Salisbury steak in an air fryer, I did find some general information on cooking Salisbury steak, as well as details on storing and reheating the dish.

To store your Salisbury steak leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the fridge. They should last 3 to 4 days stored this way. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure the steaks are fully cooled before freezing. Frozen Salisbury steak will last 2 to 3 months.

When you're ready to reheat your Salisbury steak, you can use a microwave, stovetop, or air fryer. If using a microwave, place the steak in and heat it at 20-second intervals until it's hot. On a stovetop, place the steak in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth to prevent the sauce from drying out.

If you want to use an air fryer, preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place your steak inside and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of your steak. A thicker cut may take an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it's warmed to your liking. Once it's done, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Frequently asked questions