Hamburger Steak and Gravy Recipe – Classic Comfort Food
Hamburger steaks are a classic comfort food that brings together the simplicity of ground beef patties with the rich flavors of a savory onion gravy. This recipe really highlights the savory gravy, so we know you will most certainly love this hamburger steak and gravy recipe!
This dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal.
Served alongside mashed potatoes or rice, these juicy hamburger steaks are sure to become a family favorite.
What Is Hamburger Steak?
Hamburger steak consists of seasoned ground beef formed into patties, seared to perfection, and typically smothered in a flavorful brown gravy.
Unlike a traditional hamburger, which is served in a bun, hamburger steak is presented as a standalone entrée, often accompanied by sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables.
This dish offers the satisfying taste of a burger with the comforting appeal of a homestyle meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Hamburger Steak and Gravy
This recipe serves 4 people.
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (preferably ground chuck)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can French onion condensed soup (undiluted)
- 1 (.87-ounce) packet brown gravy mix
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Additions:
- Sliced mushrooms for added texture and flavor
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Substitutions and Variations:
- Ground Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gravy mix and ensure the condensed soup is gluten-free.
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium versions of the soup and gravy mix to reduce salt content.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hamburger Steak and Gravy
1. Prepare the Beef Patties
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and ground mustard.
- Mix gently using a fork to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to tough patties.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, making them slightly larger than desired to account for shrinkage during cooking.
- Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up.
2. Sear the Patties
- Heat a skillet (cast iron preferred) over medium-high heat until hot.
- Place the patties in the skillet and cook without moving them for about 4 minutes to achieve a deep brown sear.
- Flip the patties and cook for an additional 4 minutes on the other side.
- Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
3. Prepare the Onion Gravy
- Drain excess grease from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons.
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add the sliced onions.
- Sauté until the onions become translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
- Stir in the undiluted French onion soup, brown gravy mix, and water, mixing well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and stir to incorporate.
4. Combine and Simmer
- Return the seared patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
- Allow the patties to simmer in the gravy until they reach your desired level of doneness and the gravy has thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Serve
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve the hamburger steaks hot, generously topped with the onion gravy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and pair with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Meat: Mixing the ground beef too much can result in dense, tough patties.
- Skipping the Indentation: Not pressing an indentation in the patties can cause them to puff up and cook unevenly.
- Insufficient Searing: Failing to achieve a proper sear reduces flavor; ensure the skillet is hot and avoid moving the patties prematurely.
- Overcooking: Monitor the patties closely to prevent them from becoming dry; aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for well-done.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Classic Pairings: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a traditional meal.
- Alternative Sides: Consider pairing with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a touch of color and freshness.
- Serving Dish: Present the hamburger steaks in a shallow serving dish, spooning the gravy over the top for an inviting appearance.
Expert Tips
- Meat Selection: Using ground chuck provides a juicier texture due to its 80/20 fat ratio, balancing moisture and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Freeze for Later: Form the patties and freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
- Enhance the Gravy: If you prefer a richer gravy, add 1 tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking for extra silkiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just be mindful that turkey is lower in fat, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the patties juicy.
What can I use instead of French onion soup?
If you don’t have French onion soup, substitute it with beef broth and an extra half onion sautéed in butter for a similar depth of flavor.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free brown gravy mix and substitute tamari sauce for Worcestershire sauce to keep it completely gluten-free.
Can I cook these hamburger steaks in the oven?
Yes! Place the seared patties in a baking dish, pour the gravy mixture over them, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.
What can I serve with hamburger steak?
Some great side options include:
- Mashed potatoes (classic pairing!)
- Steamed rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Buttered egg noodles
Conclusion Make Hamburger Steak and Gravy
Hamburger steaks are a delicious and easy-to-make dish, perfect for any night of the week.
With juicy, well-seasoned patties and a savory onion gravy, this meal is sure to become a household favorite.
Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, this comforting dish brings the taste of homestyle cooking straight to your table.
Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the rich flavors of a classic Southern staple!
