Hamburger Steak and Gravy

why make this recipe

Hamburger Steak and Gravy is a comforting dish that combines two beloved favorites: hamburger steak and rich, flavorful gravy. It’s a hearty meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic family dinner option. This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The blend of beefy goodness with caramelized onions and savory gravy creates a satisfying plate that is hard to resist. Whether paired with fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or served alongside hearty vegetables, Hamburger Steak and Gravy promises to fill your home with warmth and delightful smells, ideal for a cozy evening.

how to make Hamburger Steak and Gravy

Creating Hamburger Steak and Gravy involves some straightforward steps that lead to a delicious outcome. Let’s break it down.

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to make Hamburger Steak and Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (85% lean)
• 4 tablespoons frozen butter, shredded
• ½ cup yellow onion, very finely minced
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
• 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 yellow onions, sliced into ¾-inch strings
• 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, divided
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (for gravy)
• ¼ cup cold water + 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: Begin by gathering a large bowl. In this bowl, combine the finely minced yellow onion, shredded frozen butter, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and ground beef. Using your hands, gently mix all these ingredients until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meat tough.

2. Shape the Patties: Next, take the mixed meat and form it into evenly sized oval patties. Depending on your preference, you can make them larger or smaller. Once shaped, place them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This helps the patties hold their shape when cooked.

3. Sear the Patties: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, season your patties with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully place each patty in the skillet and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a nice browned crust. After searing, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

4. Cook the Onions: Now, reduce the heat a bit. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet, then toss in the sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are beautifully caramelized and golden brown. This process enhances their sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the dish.

5. Add Broth and Seasonings: Once the onions are done, pour in the chicken broth and beef broth. Stir well to combine and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. This adds even more flavor to your gravy. Also, add the onion powder, garlic powder, and the Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything well.

6. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, combine the cold water and cornstarch to create a slurry. While the gravy mixture is boiling gently, whisk in the cornstarch mixture. This will help thicken your gravy. Stir continuously until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.

7. Cook the Patties in the Gravy: Now it’s time to return the seared patties back to the skillet. Gently spoon the gravy over each patty, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the skillet with a lid and let simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This allows the patties to soak up the flavors of the gravy.

8. Finish the Gravy: Once the patties are cooked through, stir in the remaining tablespoon of cold butter into the gravy. This adds richness and a nice shine to the sauce.

9. Serve: Finally, it’s time to serve your delicious Hamburger Steak and Gravy! If you’d like, you can garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your meal hot over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up the gravy.

how to serve Hamburger Steak and Gravy

When it comes to serving Hamburger Steak and Gravy, presentation is key. Consider placing a generous serving of mashed potatoes or a scoop of rice on each plate, creating a solid base to hold the savory gravy. Position the hamburger steak patties over or beside the starch, and then drizzle the thick gravy generously over the entire dish. For added flair, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color.

Pair this meal with simple side dishes like steamed green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the gravy. Nice dinner rolls or crusty bread can also complement this dish nicely, providing an excellent texture to round out your meal.

how to store Hamburger Steak and Gravy

Leftovers of Hamburger Steak and Gravy can be stored easily, making this an ideal recipe for meal prep. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature after cooking, then transfer the leftover portions into airtight containers. Ensure to keep the patties and gravy together in one container for best flavor retention.

You can then store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the Hamburger Steak and Gravy in freezer-safe containers. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

tips to make Hamburger Steak and Gravy

• Choose Quality Meat: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality ground beef. The 85% lean option strikes a good balance between flavor and lower fat content.

• Don’t Rush the Onions: The key to great gravy is caramelized onions. Take your time cooking them on medium heat for that deep, rich flavor.

• Taste as You Go: After adding seasonings and broths, always taste the gravy for seasoning. You might want to increase the salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce based on your preference.

• Adjust Thickness of the Gravy: If your gravy comes out too thick, you can drizzle in a bit more broth or water. If it’s too thin, do another simple cornstarch slurry as described before to thicken it.

• Experiment With Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added complexity. You can also try adding a bit of smoked paprika for a unique twist.

variation

While Hamburger Steak and Gravy is fantastic as is, you can always mix things up! Here are a few ideas for variations:

• Cheesy Hamburger Steak: Top each patty with a slice of cheese before serving. Popular choices include cheddar or Swiss cheese, which melts beautifully over the hot patties.

• Mushroom Gravy: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor. This adds another layer of richness to the gravy.

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the regular cornstarch with gluten-free cornstarch to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Keep in mind that these meats may require adjustments in cooking time and seasoning.

2. How can I achieve a thicker gravy?

You can thicken your gravy either by adding more cornstarch mixed with water or allowing it to simmer longer, which evaporates some of the liquid and helps it thicken naturally.

3. Can I make Hamburger Steak and Gravy in advance?

Yes! This dish stores very well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storage tips above to ensure it remains fresh and delicious.

4. What sides pair well with Hamburger Steak and Gravy?

It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta. Vegetables like green beans, peas, or a simple salad make excellent side dishes to complete the meal.

5. How do I know when the hamburger steak is cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for ground beef to ensure it is safely cooked.

This delightful Hamburger Steak and Gravy recipe invites you to create a warm and comforting meal that everyone will love. With its savory flavors and straightforward method, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking!

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