Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a hearty and satisfying meal that brings together juicy, flavorful hamburger patties and a rich, savory onion gravy. This classic comfort food is easy to make and perfect for family dinners. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables for a delicious, filling meal.
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined, but do not overwork the meat.
- Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
Step 2: Cook the Hamburger Steaks
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the hamburger patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir, cooking for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and thyme (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Hamburger Steaks and Gravy
- Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy.
- Let the steaks simmer in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the hamburger steaks hot, smothered with onion gravy, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
Cook Notes
- Ground Beef: For the juiciest hamburger steaks, use 80/20 ground beef. A higher fat content ensures the patties remain moist and flavorful.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
- Extra Flavor: For added richness, you can add a splash of red wine to the gravy along with the beef broth.
Variations
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions for a mushroom-onion gravy.
- Cheesy Hamburger Steaks: Top the hamburger patties with a slice of cheese before adding them to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor.
- Herbed Hamburger Steaks: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the hamburger mixture for a fragrant twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the hamburger steaks and onion gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steaks and gravy in a skillet over medium heat before serving.
Can I freeze hamburger steaks with onion gravy?
Yes, hamburger steaks with onion gravy freeze well. Allow everything to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What can I serve with hamburger steaks and onion gravy?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with roasted or steamed vegetables, green beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as turkey and chicken cook faster than beef.
How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If your gravy is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until it reduces to the desired thickness. You can also mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the gravy to help thicken it quickly.
Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a comforting, classic dish that’s sure to please the whole family. With juicy, flavorful hamburger patties and a rich onion gravy, this meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. Enjoy!
