Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy Recipe

If you're craving a savory, comforting meal that's sure to please the whole family, look no further than this delicious Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy recipe. With its tender, flavorful meat and rich, savory gravy, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Read on for a step-by-step guide to creating this classic comfort food in your own kitchen.

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What is Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy?

Hamburger steak with onions and gravy is a classic American dish that features ground beef patties cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful onion gravy. This hearty meal is often served with mashed potatoes or rice, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Steak

To make this mouthwatering dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Ground beef: 1 pound (preferably 80/20 for the best flavor and texture)
• Breadcrumbs: ¼ cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking the patties)

Ingredients List for Onion Gravy

For the delectable onion gravy, gather these ingredients:

• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Yellow onions: 2 medium, thinly sliced
• Beef broth: 2 cups
• Flour: 2 tablespoons
• Worcestershire sauce: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon (optional for added flavor)
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (optional for thickening)

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize your hamburger steak and gravy to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Meat Substitutes: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce.
• Vegetarian: Use a meatless ground beef substitute and vegetable broth for the gravy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating this dish is straightforward if you follow these detailed steps:

Preparing the Hamburger Steaks

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the meat tender.
2. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾-inch thick.
3. Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are well browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.

Making the Onion Gravy

1. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they are soft and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water and add it to the gravy, stirring until it thickens.

Combining the Steaks and Gravy

1. Return the Patties: Return the cooked hamburger patties to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy.
2. Simmer Together: Allow the patties to simmer in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your hamburger steak with onions and gravy turns out perfectly:

• Over-mixing the Meat: This can result in tough patties.
• Rushing the Onion Cooking: Properly caramelizing the onions takes time but is crucial for flavor.
• Skipping the Roux: This step ensures your gravy is smooth and thick.
• Not Simmering Together: Allowing the patties to simmer in the gravy enhances the dish's overall flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a restaurant-quality presentation, consider these serving and presentation tips:

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the dish for a burst of color.
• Sides: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
• Plate Arrangement: Place the hamburger steak in the center of the plate, spoon gravy over the top, and arrange the sides neatly around it.

How to Serve Hamburger Steak

Serve your hamburger steak hot from the skillet. Place a patty on each plate, generously spoon the onion gravy over the top, and add your chosen sides. Ensure each serving gets plenty of the delicious onions and gravy.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Steak

For an elegant presentation, consider these ideas:

• Stacked Presentation: Stack the hamburger steak on a bed of mashed potatoes, then pour the gravy over the top.
• Individual Skillets: Serve each portion in a small, individual cast-iron skillet for a rustic touch.
• Family-Style Platter: Arrange all the patties on a large serving platter, pour the gravy over them, and let guests serve themselves.

Hamburger Steak Recipe Tips

To make the best hamburger steak with onions and gravy, keep these tips in mind:

• Quality Meat: Use fresh, high-quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• Patty Thickness: Keep the patties uniform in size for even cooking.
• Onion Caramelization: Be patient with the onions; they should be deeply golden for the best flavor.
• Gravy Consistency: Adjust the gravy thickness to your preference by controlling the amount of flour and liquid.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Q: Can I freeze hamburger steak with onions and gravy?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the cooked patties and gravy in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
A: Soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar can work as a substitute.

Q: Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?
A: Yes, adding sliced mushrooms during the onion cooking step adds an extra layer of flavor to the gravy.

Q: How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
A: Make sure to use a binder like breadcrumbs and egg, and avoid over-mixing the meat mixture.

Conclusion

Hamburger steak with onions and gravy is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. By following this detailed recipe, you can create a delicious and hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this classic dish, and don't forget to experiment with your own variations to make it truly your own. Happy cooking!

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