Hamburger Steak With Onions And Gravy Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, this Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy is the perfect choice. Juicy, flavorful beef patties are paired with sweet caramelized onions and a rich, savory gravy, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s budget-friendly and sure to become a family favorite.

What Is Hamburger Steak?

Hamburger steak is a simple dish that dates back to the 19th century, with its roots tied to the Hamburg region of Germany. Unlike a traditional hamburger served on a bun, hamburger steak is more akin to Salisbury steak—ground beef patties formed and cooked in a skillet, often served with a rich sauce or gravy. It’s a no-fuss meal that highlights the hearty flavors of ground beef, elevated by the addition of onions and gravy for that perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet.

Ingredients Breakdown for Hamburger Steak

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this dish shine:

• Ground beef (1 ½ lbs): The star of the show, offering rich, meaty flavor. You can opt for ground beef with a slightly higher fat content (80/20) for more juiciness.
• Breadcrumbs (½ cup): These help bind the patties together while keeping them tender.
• Egg (1): Acts as a binder, ensuring the patties hold their shape.
• Milk (¼ cup): Adds moisture and richness to the patties.
• Salt & Black Pepper (½ tsp each): Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
• Onions (2, thinly sliced): Caramelized onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish, complementing the savory beef.
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Used to thicken the gravy.
• Beef broth (2 cups): Forms the base of the gravy, adding a deep, savory flavor.
• Dried thyme (1 tsp): Adds a subtle earthy note to the gravy.
• sauce (1 tbsp): A classic sauce that enhances the umami in the gravy and adds a touch of tanginess.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• A large mixing bowl for the beef mixture.
• A skillet or frying pan for browning the patties and cooking the onions.
• A spatula to flip the patties.
• A whisk to stir and smooth out the gravy.
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hamburger Steak With Onions and Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ lbs ground beef, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, ¼ cup milk, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make the patties tough. Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and form them into patties, about ½ inch thick.

Step 2: Brown the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Once the skillet is hot, place the patties in and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned. The goal here is to get a nice crust on the outside while still keeping the interior juicy. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions. If needed, add a little more oil to the pan. Sauté the onions for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and start to caramelize.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

Once the onions are cooked, sprinkle 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour over them. Stir well to coat the onions with the flour, cooking for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in 2 cups of beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add 1 tbsp sauce and 1 tsp dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the gravy to thicken.

Step 5: Simmer the Patties in the Gravy

Return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the patties to cook through and absorb the rich flavors of the gravy. If the gravy gets too thick, add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the hamburger steaks are fully cooked, remove them from the heat and serve hot, generously spooning the onion gravy over the top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Hamburger Steak

• Overmixing the beef: Handling the ground beef too much can result in dense, tough patties. Mix just until combined for tender results.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the patties adds a lot of flavor, so don’t rush this step.
• Burning the onions: Cook the onions slowly to develop their sweetness without burning them. If the pan gets too hot, reduce the heat.
• Lumpy gravy: Be sure to stir the flour into the onions well, and slowly add the broth while whisking to prevent lumps.

Recipe Variations: How to Make It Your Own

This recipe is quite versatile, and there are several ways you can customize it to suit your tastes:

• Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You may need to adjust the seasonings to taste.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Steak

This dish is rich and comforting, so it pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Mashed potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the savory gravy beautifully.
• Rice: A bed of rice helps soak up the flavorful gravy.
• Steamed vegetables: Balance the richness with something fresh and light like green beans, carrots, or broccoli.

For a visually appealing presentation, place the patties on top of the mashed potatoes or rice, spoon the onion gravy over them, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Hamburger Steak

If you have any leftovers, store the hamburger steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to help loosen the gravy. Heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

You can also freeze the cooked patties and gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

FAQ

Can I freeze hamburger steak?

Yes! Cooked hamburger steaks freeze well. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Be sure to freeze the gravy separately for best results.

What should I do if the gravy is too thick?

If the gravy becomes too thick while simmering, simply add more beef broth a little at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless alternative like plant-based ground “meat”.

conclusion

This Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want something hearty and satisfying. The savory gravy paired with juicy hamburger patties and caramelized onions is a combination that’s hard to beat. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Also, be sure to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes like this one.

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