Delicious Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic Recipe

Introduction: When it comes to classic, hearty comfort food, hamburger steaks with onion gravy reigns supreme. This easy-to-make yet satisfying dish combines juicy hamburger patties, perfectly cooked to golden perfection, topped with a rich, savory onion gravy. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or want to impress your guests with a delicious meal, this hamburger steak recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making the perfect hamburger steaks with onion gravy. We will walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and offer tips for enhancing the flavor. Plus, we will answer common questions about this popular dish, so you can become a hamburger steak expert in no time!

The Ingredients for Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy: The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here are the ingredients that you’ll need to make hamburger steaks with onion gravy:

For the Hamburger Steaks:

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose a lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – These help to bind the hamburger patties together and keep them moist.
• 1/4 cup milk – Milk adds moisture to the patties and makes them tender.
• 1 egg – The egg helps to hold the ingredients together while cooking.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – A staple in seasoning blends that adds savory depth to the flavor.
• 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall taste, especially when combined with the onions in the gravy.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Brings out all the other flavors in the patties.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a mild kick to the hamburger steaks.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For pan-frying the patties to a golden crisp.

For the Onion Gravy:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – Butter makes the gravy rich and smooth.
• 1 large onion – Thinly sliced for a sweet, caramelized base.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – Used to thicken the gravy and create a roux.
• 2 cups beef broth – The savory base for the gravy, adding richness to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – A must-have for adding a tangy depth of flavor.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the onions and the savoriness of the gravy.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – Adds a little more seasoning to complete the gravy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Hamburger Steaks:

Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix all the ingredients together. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the patties tough.

Once the mixture is evenly combined, divide it into four equal portions and shape them into hamburger patties.

2. Cooking the Hamburger Steaks:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the hamburger patties to the skillet. Cook them for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside. We’ll use the same skillet to make the onion gravy, which will absorb all those delicious flavors left behind.

3. Making the Onion Gravy:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8–10 minutes until the onions are caramelized and golden brown. This step is key to developing a rich, sweet flavor base for the gravy.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, which will help thicken the gravy.

Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. As you stir, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, as they add extra flavor to the gravy.

Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Bring the gravy to a simmer, cooking for an additional 3–4 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

4. Combining the Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy:

Return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the onion gravy over the top. Allow the patties to simmer in the gravy for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Serving the Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy: Once the hamburger steaks are cooked and covered in the rich, flavorful gravy, they are ready to serve. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. The savory gravy is perfect for spooning over the steak and sides, making it an incredibly comforting meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy:

1. Choosing the Right Ground Beef: For the best flavor, opt for ground beef that has a little fat content, such as 80/20 (80% lean, 20% fat). This will ensure your hamburger steaks stay juicy and flavorful.
2. Caramelizing the Onions: The secret to a rich, flavorful onion gravy is caramelizing the onions properly. Don’t rush this step – low and slow cooking will develop the onions’ natural sweetness.
3. Enhance the Gravy with Herbs: If you want to take your gravy to the next level, try adding a little fresh thyme or bay leaves while the gravy simmers. Just remember to remove them before serving.
4. Adjust the Seasoning: After adding the beef broth to the gravy, give it a taste. You might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt or Worcestershire sauce to your liking.

FAQs About Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy:

1. Can I use a different type of meat for the hamburger steaks? Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just be mindful that the flavor and texture may change slightly.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make hamburger steaks with onion gravy gluten-free, simply replace the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free option, such as gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Ensure that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are also gluten-free.
3. Can I make the onion gravy ahead of time? Absolutely! The onion gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove before pouring over the hamburger steaks.
4. Can I freeze hamburger steaks with onion gravy? Yes, this dish freezes well. After cooking, allow the hamburger steaks with onion gravy to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.

Conclusion: Hamburger steaks with onion gravy is a timeless, comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With juicy hamburger patties, tender caramelized onions, and a savory, rich gravy, this dish is the perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side, this meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this mouthwatering dish tonight!

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