Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy Recipe

Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy Recipe

If you’re like me, you’ve probably hit that wall where cooking feels like a monotonous chore. Sure, I can cook, but let’s just say my passion lies elsewhere (sports, anyone?). Thankfully, there are wonderful cooks out there who inspire us with their creations, and platforms like Pinterest to help us discover them. This recipe for Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy was a game-changer for me—simple, hearty, and perfect for breaking out of a dinner rut. Let me walk you through it step by step, with a little personal flair and some tips I’ve picked up along the way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 cup thinly sliced onion
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt

Let’s Get Cooking

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start, gather all your ingredients. It makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Chop your onions, measure out your spices, and set up your workspace. Trust me, having everything ready is a sanity saver.

Step 2: Make the Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, black pepper, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix it gently with your hands until everything is evenly distributed. Form the mixture into 8 equal balls and then flatten them into patties. Pro tip: Don’t overmix the beef, as it can make the patties dense instead of tender.

Step 3: Sear the Patties

Heat about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties. Cook them for about 4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Keep them warm while you move on to the next step.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

In the same skillet, add your sliced onions. If the skillet seems a bit dry, you can add a touch more oil. Cook the onions until they’re tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally. The aroma at this point is pure heaven!

Step 5: Make the Gravy

Sprinkle the flour over the onions and drippings in the skillet. Stir the flour into the mixture with a fork or whisk, making sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (these bits are packed with flavor). Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season the gravy with seasoned salt and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.

Step 6: Combine and Simmer

Once the gravy is ready, turn the heat to low and return the patties to the skillet. Spoon some of that rich, savory gravy over the patties to coat them. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

I served these hamburger steaks with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans. The gravy pairs perfectly with the potatoes, soaking into every bite. While I didn’t have biscuits on hand, they would have been an excellent addition to mop up the extra gravy. If you’re feeling indulgent, a side of buttery corn or a fresh green salad would also complement this meal wonderfully.

Personal Notes and Tips

Personal Notes and Tips

  • Handling Drippings: While making the gravy, I removed some of the drippings to avoid it being too greasy. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to leave more drippings in.
  • Safety Reminder: During one of my attempts, I accidentally spilled hot drippings on my hand. Be careful while handling hot pans and oils. (My hand is all healed now, thank you for asking!)
  • Adjusting the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, this recipe can be easily doubled. Conversely, it’s simple to scale down if you’re cooking for just one or two.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to tweak the recipe:

  1. Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet when cooking the onions for an earthy twist.
  2. Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the patties during the final simmer.
  3. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
  4. Healthier Options: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and swap out the vegetable oil for olive oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish has everything you could want in a comfort meal: rich flavors, satisfying textures, and a nostalgic appeal that takes you back to simpler times. It’s hearty without being overly complicated, and it hits all the right notes for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

In a Nutshell

Here’s a quick recap for when you’re ready to dive in:

  1. Mix ground beef with seasonings and form into patties.
  2. Sear the patties until browned.
  3. Cook onions in the same skillet.
  4. Make gravy by adding flour and beef broth.
  5. Simmer patties in the gravy for a flavorful finish.
  6. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Home-Cooked Goodness

Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone who’d rather be crafting than cooking, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. So, grab your skillet and give it a try. Who knows? It might just become a staple in your household. And if you do make it, let me know how it turns out—or if you added your own twist. Happy cooking!