Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Introduction
Hamburger steaks with onion gravy are a delicious comfort food that will leave you craving for more. This classic dish combines juicy ground beef patties with a rich, flavorful onion gravy that is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or rice. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy dinner option or want to indulge in some nostalgic flavors, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the hamburger steaks:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the onion gravy:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the hamburger steaks
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into oval-shaped patties. Make sure the patties are about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the hamburger steaks
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the hamburger steaks to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 3: Prepare the onion gravy
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until they are caramelized and golden brown, stirring occasionally. This process may take about 15-20 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat them evenly. Cook for another minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve
Place the hamburger steaks on a serving platter and pour the onion gravy over them. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes.
Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences:
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the hamburger steak mixture for an extra tangy flavor.
- Include some sautéed mushrooms in the onion gravy for a savory twist.
- Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter alternative.
- Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the hamburger steak mixture for added freshness.
Tips
- For juicier hamburger steaks, use ground beef with a higher fat content like 80/20.
- If the onion gravy is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little more beef broth or water.
- Make sure to let the hamburger steaks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep them moist.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the hamburger steak mixture and onion gravy to suit your taste.
Conclusion
Hamburger steaks with onion gravy are a classic dish that brings together the hearty flavors of ground beef and caramelized onions in a rich and savory gravy. This recipe is simple to make and is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its versatility and comforting flavors, it is bound to become a family favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I make the hamburger steaks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hamburger steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking.
2. Can I freeze the leftover hamburger steaks?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked hamburger steaks for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. What can I serve with hamburger steaks besides mashed potatoes?
Hamburger steaks with onion gravy pair well with a variety of sides, including rice, roasted vegetables, buttered noodles, or a fresh side salad. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
4. Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making the onion gravy from scratch?
While making the onion gravy from scratch adds an extra layer of flavor, you can certainly use store-bought gravy as a time-saving alternative. Just heat it up and pour it over the cooked hamburger steaks.
5. Can I grill the hamburger steaks instead of cooking them on the stovetop?
Yes, you can grill the hamburger steaks for a smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Enjoy this mouthwatering dish and savor the deliciousness of hamburger steaks with onion gravy!
