Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a recipe that not only promises a hearty meal but also delivers comfort in every bite. When I first decided to whip up this dish for a family dinner, I was looking for something that would bring the familiar warmth of a home-cooked meal to the table, with a touch of savory sophistication. The result was nothing short of delightful. The rich, onion gravy infused each beef patty with an irresistible flavor, making every mouthful a celebration of homely yet indulgent dining. My family’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with requests for the recipe to be a recurring feature on our menu. It’s safe to say, this dish turned an ordinary evening into a memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup thinly sliced onion
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cooking sherry
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, pepper, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and form the mixture into 8 balls, then flatten into patties.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and onion, frying until the patties are nicely browned, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the patties to a plate and keep them warm.
- To the same skillet, add flour over the onions and drippings. Use a fork to stir, scraping the bits of beef off the bottom of the pan. Gradually mix in the beef broth and sherry, then season with seasoned salt. Simmer and stir over medium-low heat until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, return the patties to the skillet, cover, and let simmer in the gravy for another 15 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4 Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
Preparation Time
Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Total time: 45 minutes
How to Serve
- On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes: The classic companion to hamburger steak, mashed potatoes soak up the gravy, creating a match made in comfort food heaven.
- Alongside Steamed Vegetables: For a balanced meal, serve with a side of steamed vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli.
- Over Rice: Pour the onion gravy over a warm bed of rice to enjoy a different texture and flavor combination.
- With a Side Salad: A light, crisp side salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the hamburger steaks and gravy.
- As a Burger: For a twist, place the hamburger steak between toasted buns for a gourmet burger experience, adding lettuce, tomato, and extra onions if desired.
- Under a Blanket of Cheese: Before the final simmer, top each patty with a slice of your favorite cheese and let it melt into the gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
Additional Tips
- Meat Quality: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option, but remember that a higher fat content may contribute to juicier patties.
- Making Ahead: You can form the patties and prepare the gravy ahead of time, refrigerating until ready to cook for a quicker meal preparation.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Cool the hamburger steaks and gravy completely before freezing in airtight containers.
- Thickening the Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by cooking for a few additional minutes or adding a slurry of flour and water.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings in the gravy to suit your taste. More Worcestershire sauce, garlic, or pepper can be added for enhanced flavor.
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef? A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and all-purpose flour substitutes for a gluten-free version.
Can I make the gravy without sherry? A: Absolutely, you can omit the sherry or substitute it with a splash of beef broth or water.
Is it possible to cook this in a slow cooker? A: Yes, after browning the patties and onions, transfer them along with the gravy ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart? A: Ensure the mixture is well combined and compact each patty firmly. The egg and bread crumbs help bind the ingredients, so don’t skip them.
Can I add mushrooms to this recipe? A: Definitely. Mushrooms can be added along with the onions for an extra layer of flavor. Sauté them until they’re soft before adding the flour for the gravy.
How long can I store the leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the gravy has thickened too much.
Can the hamburger steaks be grilled? A: Yes, you can grill the patties instead of frying them. However, you’ll need to make the gravy separately in a pan.
What if I don’t have seasoned salt? A: You can use a mixture of regular salt and a pinch of your favorite dried herbs, such as thyme or oregano, as a substitute.
Can I make the onion gravy without the patties? A: Yes, the gravy can be made on its own and served with other dishes. It pairs well with roasted meats or mashed potatoes.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? A: The recipe is already dairy-free, so no substitutions are necessary.
This Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a comforting, savory meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With its tender, flavorful patties and rich onion gravy, it’s a classic dish that brings the warmth of home cooking to any table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, following these tips and serving suggestions will help you create a memorable meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides for a complete and hearty dinner any night of the week.
