Introduction
Picture this: a sizzling hot plate with a juicy hamburger steak smothered in a savory gravy, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans. The comforting aroma fills the kitchen as you prepare to indulge in a classic Southern favorite, the Smothered Hamburger Steak.
What makes this recipe truly special is its rich history rooted in Southern cuisine. Dating back to the early 20th century, this dish was born out of a desire to create a hearty and budget-friendly meal using simple ingredients. Today, it continues to be a beloved comfort food enjoyed by families across the region.
While the Smothered Hamburger Steak may seem like a humble dish, its flavors are anything but ordinary. The combination of seasoned ground beef, onions, and a luscious gravy creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
Join me on a culinary journey as we explore the art of preparing this iconic dish and discover why it has stood the test of time as a timeless classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Smothered Hamburger Steak. From its simplicity to its incredible flavor profile, this recipe has something for everyone.
One of the best features of this dish is its ease of preparation. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal that will satisfy your cravings in no time.
Additionally, this recipe offers a hearty and filling option for those looking for a satisfying meal. The combination of protein-rich beef and hearty gravy makes it a perfect choice for a comforting dinner that will leave you feeling fully satisfied.
For those watching their dietary intake, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various preferences. Whether you prefer leaner meat options or want to add more vegetables to the mix, the versatility of this dish makes it a great choice for customization.
Ingredients
For the Smothered Hamburger Steak:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Ingredient Substitutions:
– Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef
– Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted for regular breadcrumbs for a crispier texture
– Gluten-free flour can be used to make the dish gluten-friendly
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into oval-shaped patties.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the flour turns golden brown. Slowly whisk in beef broth and milk, stirring to combine and thicken the gravy.
4. Return the patties to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the patties are cooked through.
5. Serve the Smothered Hamburger Steak hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables.
Expert Tips for Success
• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
• Season the patties generously for a flavor-packed result.
• Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken properly for a rich and velvety texture.
• For added depth of flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the gravy.
Variations and Substitutions
• For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef.
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to spice up the dish.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the mixture and simmer until thickened.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Smothered Hamburger Steak experience, consider serving it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. The creamy potatoes complement the rich gravy, while the green beans add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
For a complete Southern meal, pair this dish with sweet cornbread and a refreshing glass of iced tea. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors will create a harmonious dining experience that will transport you to the heart of the South.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze leftover Smothered Hamburger Steak?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked patties and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make the patties ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can save you time on busy weeknights.
Q: How can I make the gravy thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering gravy and cook until thickened to your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Smothered Hamburger Steak is a timeless recipe that embodies the essence of comfort food. Its simple yet flavorful components come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and soul-warming.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and indulge in a taste of Southern hospitality with every bite.
Remember, the key to a perfect Smothered Hamburger Steak lies in the balance of flavors and the love you put into preparing it. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor the delicious results of this iconic Southern dish!
Smothered Hamburger Steak
Enjoy a classic Southern favorite with this recipe for Smothered Hamburger Steak. Juicy ground beef patties smothered in a savory gravy, served with creamy mashed potatoes and buttery green beans.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into oval-shaped patties.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the flour turns golden brown. Slowly whisk in beef broth and milk, stirring to combine and thicken the gravy.
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Return the patties to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the patties are cooked through.
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Serve the Smothered Hamburger Steak hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with mashed potatoes and your favorite vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
