Are you craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s reminiscent of classic Southern cuisine? Look no further than these Smothered Hamburger Steaks. Made with tender ground beef patties smothered in a rich and savory mushroom gravy, this dish is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters. Join us as we explore how to create this delicious dish step-by-step, along with helpful cooking tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 2 lbs Lean ground beef
Produce:
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Onion powder
Canned Goods:
- 2 10.5-ounce cans Condensed cream of mushroom soup
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Oils & Vinegars:
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
Snacks:
- 1 1/2 cups Saltine cracker crumbs
Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 1/2 cups Whole milk
Instructions:
- Prepare Hamburger Patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into oval-shaped patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Coat Patties: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Coat each hamburger patty in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Brown Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated hamburger patties to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the saltine cracker crumbs and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and whole milk until smooth.
- Simmer: Return the browned hamburger patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
- Serve: Once cooked, spoon the mushroom gravy over the hamburger patties. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add chopped onions or minced garlic to the gravy for additional flavor depth.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the hamburger patties during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy upgrade.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the gravy, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, to suit your taste preferences.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for dredging the hamburger patties to reduce the carb content.
- Use a low-carb mushroom soup substitute or make your own keto-friendly mushroom gravy using heavy cream, mushrooms, and beef broth.
Low-Carb Version:
- Opt for a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder instead of flour for thickening the gravy.
- Choose unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream instead of whole milk to lower the carb content of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that ground turkey may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the hamburger patties and gravy ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the gravy on the stovetop and cook the hamburger patties until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover hamburger steaks and gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What are some ideal side dishes to serve with smothered hamburger steaks? A: Smothered hamburger steaks pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Smothered Hamburger Steaks are the epitome of Southern comfort food, with their tender beef patties bathed in a rich and flavorful mushroom gravy. Whether enjoyed for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this dish never fails to delight. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to the comforting goodness of smothered hamburger steaks? With its hearty flavors and soul-warming appeal, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. From our kitchen to yours, enjoy every savory bite of this classic Southern favorite!
Now, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of smothered hamburger steaks. Your taste buds will thank you!
