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This recipe comes together quickly and easily, and while it may feel like a classic diner dish, it’s made right at home with love.
1. Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
Start by making the hamburger patties:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Form the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on your preferred size. Each patty should be about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Cook the Hamburger Steaks
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (for well-done burgers). You should get a nice brown crust on the outside of each patty.
- Once cooked through, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Tent them with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet, you’ll use the fond (the browned bits from the hamburger steaks) to make the gravy, which adds so much flavor to the dish.
- Add the butter to the skillet, and once it’s melted, add the sliced onions. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and soft, about 10-12 minutes. The onions should be golden brown and sweet-smelling.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions, and stir well to coat them. Let the flour cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce (if using) and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Combine the Patties and Gravy
Once the gravy has thickened, return the hamburger patties to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over the top of each patty. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the patties are fully heated through.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is ready, serve the hamburger steaks hot, spooning the rich onion gravy over the top. This dish is perfect when served with:
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy potatoes are ideal for soaking up the flavorful gravy.
- Rice: A bed of fluffy rice makes a great base for the juicy patties and gravy.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts make for a balanced, hearty side.
- Buttered noodles: Tender egg noodles tossed in butter are another comforting choice that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and gravy.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overwork the meat: When forming the hamburger patties, mix just enough to combine the ingredients. Over-mixing can make the patties tough.
- Customize the gravy: If you prefer a thicker or thinner gravy, adjust the amount of flour or broth you use. You can also add a splash of cream for a richer texture.
- Use lean ground beef: While 80/20 beef is ideal for juicy burgers, you can use leaner ground beef if you prefer, but it may not be as rich and flavorful.
- Add more vegetables: If you want to make the dish even heartier, add some mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots to the onion gravy.
Why Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a Winner
There’s a reason Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a comfort food classic. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of savory, seasoned hamburger patties and the rich, caramelized onion gravy is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s a great way to turn a simple, budget-friendly ingredient like ground beef into a truly satisfying dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a family or preparing a special meal for two, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a classic that’s loved by many!
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