This classic hamburger steak is juicy and comforting, topped with a rich onion gravy that makes every bite super yummy. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how easy it is to whip this up on busy nights. Just sear the patties and let that delicious gravy work its magic. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80% lean ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but they may be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: These help hold the patties together and add texture. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats as a substitute!
Onions: Sweet onions work well in both the patties and the gravy. If you have a yellow or white onion, they’ll do just fine too. For a unique twist, try using shallots for a sweeter flavor.
Beef Broth: While beef broth gives a rich taste, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used for a lighter gravy, especially if making this dish for someone avoiding red meat.
How Do I Get My Patties to Stay Juicy?
Keeping hamburger steaks juicy is all about the mixing and cooking process. You want to mix the ingredients just enough so they hold together without being tough. Here are some tips:
- Soaking breadcrumbs in milk adds moisture to the meat. Don’t skip this step!
- Try to handle the meat mixture gently. Overworking it can lead to tough patties.
- Cook them on medium-high heat for a nice crust, then lower the heat slightly to cook through without drying out.
Classic Hamburger Steak With Savory Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Savory Onion Gravy:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 25 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk in a small bowl. This helps keep the hamburger steaks moist. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
2. Mix the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently, being careful not to overwork the meat, until everything is just combined.
3. Shape Your Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into oval patties about 3/4-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to keep them from puffing up while cooking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate covered with foil.
5. Make the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the sliced onions. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they’re soft and caramelized.
6. Add Garlic and Flour:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until you smell the garlic’s lovely aroma. Then, sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring to coat them. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
7. Create the Gravy:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth to avoid lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the gravy thickens to your liking.
8. Season and Combine:
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste. Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet and spoon some gravy over them. Allow them to simmer together for 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hamburger steaks hot, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a fulfilling dinner. Enjoy your delicious classic hamburger steak with savory onion gravy!
FAQ for Classic Hamburger Steak With Savory Onion Gravy
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey may require a bit more seasoning to enhance its flavor, so you might want to add a touch more salt or other spices.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers or oats as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the amount a bit to maintain the right texture—start with the same amount and add more if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and even the gravy a day in advance. Store the cooked patties and gravy separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to the gravy to restore its consistency.
