This classic hamburger steak is a juicy delight, topped with rich, savory onion gravy. It’s like a hug in a meal, perfect for a cozy family dinner!
I love how simple it is to make. Just pan-fry the patties, whip up that tasty gravy, and you’ve got comfort food on the table in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but these may be less flavorful. Don’t forget to add a bit of oil or fat if you choose leaner meats!
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs give the patties structure and moisture. If you have stale bread, you can make your own by toasting and grinding it. Gluten-free bread also works if you want a gluten-free option. Just make sure to adjust the amount if it’s more absorbent.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect here for their sweetness when cooked. You can use white onions or even shallots for a milder taste, but avoid red onions as they can overpower the flavor of the gravy.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor. If you’re out, a mix of soy sauce and a bit of vinegar can work in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, try mushroom soy sauce!
How to Make Your Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience. This step transforms your onions into a sweet and rich topping for your hamburger steak. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in your sliced onions.
- Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally. This can take about 10-12 minutes for them to soften and turn golden brown.
- If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. A gentle, consistent heat allows the natural sugars to caramelize beautifully.
- Don’t forget to scrape any browned bits off the pan; they add great flavor to your gravy!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delicious caramelized onions that enhance your dish!
Classic Hamburger Steak With Savory Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Savory Onion Gravy:
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hamburger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk; let this mixture soak for 5 minutes to soften the breadcrumbs. Then, add the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps to keep your patties tender.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into oval or round patties that are about 3/4 inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach about 160°F or 71°C). Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate.
4. Make the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and caramelized, which should take about 10-12 minutes. This step adds a wonderful sweetness to your gravy!
5. Create the Roux:
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This forms a roux that will help thicken your gravy.
6. Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Add the Worcestershire sauce to further enhance the flavor. Allow the gravy to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
7. Season the Gravy:
Give your gravy a taste and add salt and pepper as needed to perfect the flavor.
8. Serve:
Place your hamburger steaks on plates and generously ladle the savory onion gravy over the top. Enjoy your classic hamburger steak hot, alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your classic hamburger steak with rich onion gravy! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just note that turkey can be drier, so adding a bit of olive oil or an extra egg can help keep the patties moist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Hamburger Steaks?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy!
