Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy: The Classic Comfort Recipe

Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy: A Homestyle Favorite

If you crave a dinner that’s hearty, savory, and reminiscent of a classic family meal, look no further than hamburger steak with onions and gravy. This beloved dish transforms simple ground beef into succulent patties, enhanced with golden onions and a rich, homemade brown gravy. Perfect for weeknights and special occasions alike, it’s a timeless comfort food that continues to win hearts with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients you likely already have.
• Quick prep and cooking time—on the table in less than an hour.
• Versatile enough to serve with mashed potatoes, fries, rice, or noodles.
• Kid-friendly and customizable to your tastes.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Patties

   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing can make patties tough.

   Divide the mixture into 8 equal-sized balls. Flatten each into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.

2. Brown the Patties and Onions

   Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef patties and the sliced onions. Fry until patties are nicely browned, about 4 minutes per side. The onions should begin to caramelize and turn golden.

   Once browned, transfer the patties to a plate and keep them warm. Leave the onions in the skillet.

3. Make the Gravy

   Sprinkle flour over the onions and pan drippings. Stir with a fork or whisk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Gradually add the beef broth and cooking sherry, stirring to dissolve the flour.

   Season the gravy with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt. Simmer and stir over medium-low heat until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.

4. Simmer and Finish

   Reduce the heat to low. Return the browned patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the patties to finish cooking and absorb the flavors of the gravy.

5. Serve

   Serve the hamburger steaks hot, smothered with onion gravy. Suggested sides include mashed potatoes, egg noodles, steamed rice, or even crispy French fries—a favorite for kids who love dipping in the savory sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up every drop of gravy.
• Buttered egg noodles: A hearty base for the savory steak and onions.
• Steamed white rice: A lighter option that balances the richness of the dish.
• Crispy French fries: Especially popular with kids, who enjoy dipping fries into the flavorful gravy.
• Vegetable sides: Roasted carrots, green beans, or sautéed squash for added color and nutrition.

Tips for Perfect Hamburger Steak

• Don’t overmix: Gently combine your ingredients to ensure tender patties.
• Use a large skillet: Give patties enough room to brown and develop flavor without steaming.
• Deglaze the pan: Scraping up the browned bits when adding broth builds rich, deep flavor in the gravy.
• Double the gravy: Many home cooks recommend making extra, since the gravy is often the star of the dish!
• Customize seasonings: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, hot sauce, or fresh herbs for a personalized touch.

Variations and Additions

• Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra earthiness.
• Cheesy Hamburger Steak: Top each patty with a slice of Swiss or cheddar cheese just before serving.
• Salisbury Steak Style: Include a splash of ketchup and a teaspoon of mustard in the gravy for a tangier profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour substitutes to adapt the recipe.
• Low-Sodium Diet: Choose low-sodium broth and reduce the seasoned salt to control sodium intake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked patties and gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring gravy occasionally for even heating. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition Information

The classic hamburger steak with onions and gravy is a hearty dish, typically providing a good source of protein along with moderate fat and carbohydrates, especially when served with sides. To reduce fat, opt for leaner ground beef and use less oil. Adjust salt and seasoning to taste and dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I keep my hamburger steak patties from falling apart?

Make sure to include the egg and bread crumbs as binders in the meat mixture. Mix just until combined, and form firm but not overly compact patties.

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Note that poultry is leaner, so you may want to add an extra tablespoon of oil for moisture.

What can I use instead of cooking sherry?

If you don’t have cooking sherry on hand, substitute with a splash of red wine, apple cider, or simply use extra beef broth. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the gravy?

Absolutely. Mushrooms are a classic addition, but you can also add bell peppers, sliced carrots, or peas. Sauté them along with the onions for best results.

How do I avoid lumpy gravy?

Sprinkle the flour evenly and stir constantly to prevent clumps. Gradually add the broth, whisking as you go. If lumps do form, pass the gravy through a mesh sieve before serving.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use fresh ground beef for best flavor and texture. Avoid previously frozen meat if possible.
• Rest the patties briefly after shaping to help them hold together during cooking.
• For richer gravy, add a pat of butter just before serving.
• Make it ahead: This dish develops deeper flavor if made a few hours ahead and reheated before serving.

Classic Comfort, Endless Versatility

Hamburger steak with onions and gravy is a shining example of home-cooked comfort food at its finest. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a near-universal appeal, it’s a recipe you can rely on for years to come. Whether you keep it traditional or add your own spin, this dish is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to make extra gravy—it might just become the most-requested part of your dinner table!

Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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