If you’re craving a hearty, homey meal that brings all the comfort you need on a busy weeknight, this Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe is your new best friend. Perfectly seasoned ground beef patties, tender and juicy, smothered in a rich, deeply flavorful onion gravy, make every bite a satisfying experience. This classic dish captures the essence of traditional comfort food with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Whether it’s your first time or you’re revisiting a beloved favorite, this recipe is guaranteed to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your dinner plate with pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a few simple ingredients is all it takes to create this delicious Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory ground beef that forms the juicy patties to the sweet, caramelized yellow onions that give the gravy its luscious depth of flavor. These essentials not only enhance taste but also add wonderful texture and aroma, making this dish truly irresistible.
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil: This brings a smooth, subtle richness to the cooking process and prevents sticking.
- 1 ½ lbs. ground beef (85% lean): Provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture for juicy patties.
- 4 Tablespoons frozen butter (shredded): Adds creaminess and richness right into the meat for extra tenderness.
- ½ cup yellow onion (very finely minced): Infuses the patty mix with a mild sweetness and depth.
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard: A subtle tang that elevates the flavor profile of the beef.
- 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a savory umami kick to the patties.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and sharpness.
- Salt/Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
- 2 yellow onions (sliced into ¾ inch strings): The star of the gravy, these become sweet and tender with cooking.
- 3 Tablespoons cold unsalted butter (divided): Used in the gravy to enrich the sauce and create silkiness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds a lighter base for the gravy.
- 1 cup beef broth: Deepens the gravy’s savory richness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Heightens the onion flavor in the gravy.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle, rounded garlic essence.
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the gravy’s umami complexity.
- ¼ cup cold water + 3 tablespoons corn starch: These combine to thicken the onion gravy to perfect consistency.
How to Make Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
Start by mixing the ground beef with the frozen shredded butter, finely minced yellow onion, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. The frozen butter might seem unusual but it melts during cooking, keeping the patties incredibly juicy and moist. Divide this mixture into four equal parts and shape into oval-shaped patties, handling them gently to keep them tender.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned and cooked through but still juicy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, giving the patties enough room to develop a beautiful crust. Once done, remove the patties and set aside on a warm plate; you’ll be returning them to the pan later.
Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of the cold unsalted butter and toss in your sliced onions. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they soften and caramelize to a golden brown, which should take around 10-12 minutes. This caramelization is the secret to that rich, sweet onion flavor in the gravy. Next, sprinkle in the onion powder and garlic powder, then stir in the chicken broth, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Let this mixture simmer and reduce slightly for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Thicken and Finish the Gravy
Combine the cold water and corn starch in a small bowl and whisk together until smooth. Slowly pour this slurry into the simmering gravy, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter to finish the gravy with a silky texture and rich flavor. Return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet, spoon the gravy generously over each, and heat everything together for another couple of minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple finishing touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top right before serving. It adds a vibrant pop of green and a hint of freshness that beautifully complements the rich onion gravy. A few cracked black peppercorns on the plate also enhance the look and give a subtle spice kick.
Side Dishes
This Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe pairs perfectly with classic mashed potatoes, which soak up every drop of the delicious gravy. You can also serve it alongside steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or buttery egg noodles to complete this comforting, satisfying meal. Choose sides that’ll balance the richness with a bit of texture and color.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, plate the hamburger steaks on warmed plates with a mound of mashed potatoes and a generous ladle of onion gravy cascading over the top. If you want to impress guests, serve the patties on toasted rustic bread as a hearty open-faced sandwich with gravy on the side for dipping. No matter how you present it, this dish always promises a heartwarming experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover hamburger steaks with onion gravy store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners when you need a comforting bite without extra prep time. Just be sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the patties and gravy separately for up to 2 months. Place hamburger steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Store the gravy in a leak-proof container to prevent spills. This method preserves the texture and flavor, making meal prep a breeze down the line.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen components overnight in the fridge. Warm the onion gravy slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Heat the patties in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Pour the gravy over the patties just before serving to mimic that fresh-cooked goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of pork and beef. Keep in mind that leaner meats might need a bit of added fat to maintain juiciness, so consider mixing in some shredded butter or a touch of oil.
How do I get the perfect texture on the hamburger steaks?
Handling the meat gently and not overmixing when combining ingredients is key to tender steaks. Also, avoid pressing down on the patties during cooking so they stay juicy. The shredded frozen butter inside the mix plays a big role in keeping them moist as well.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar combined with a pinch of sugar to replicate that balanced umami and tang. It won’t be exactly the same, but still quite delicious!
Can I make the onion gravy without broth?
Yes, though using broth makes the gravy richer. If you don’t have broth on hand, you can use water, but consider adding a bouillon cube or seasoning generously with salt to boost flavor. Alternatively, some beef or vegetable stock from a carton will work perfectly.
Is Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish reheats beautifully and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners during the week. Just keep the gravy and patties stored separately until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about this Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its blend of simple ingredients, loving preparation, and rich flavors makes it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it might just become your go-to comfort meal. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and create some delicious memories with this timeless favorite!
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Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy recipe features juicy, savory beef patties cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, flavorful onion gravy. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, and a blend of seasonings, this comforting dish is perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 ½ lbs. ground beef (85% lean)
- 4 Tablespoons frozen butter (shredded)
- ½ cup yellow onion (very finely minced)
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Onion Gravy Ingredients
- 2 yellow onions (sliced into ¾ inch strings)
- 3 Tablespoons cold unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup cold water
- 3 tablespoons corn starch
Instructions
- Prepare the Hamburger Steaks: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, shredded frozen butter, finely minced yellow onion, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Form and Cook Patties: Shape the meat mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side or until browned and cooked through. Remove patties from the skillet and set aside on a plate, keeping warm.
- Make the Onion Gravy: In the same skillet, add 1 ½ tablespoons cold unsalted butter and sliced yellow onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes. Stir in chicken broth, beef broth, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
- Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, mix cold water with corn starch until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering onions and broth in skillet. Stir continuously until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 1 ½ tablespoons butter for richness.
- Serve: Plate the hamburger steaks and generously ladle the onion gravy over the top. Serve immediately with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a comforting meal.
Notes
- To ensure juicy patties, avoid overmixing the beef mixture.
- Shredding frozen butter helps distribute fat evenly throughout the patties, keeping them moist.
- Caramelize onions slowly to develop a deep, sweet flavor in the gravy.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, increase the cornstarch to 4 tablespoons.
- For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and broth.
