📝 Introduction:
Hamburger steaks with onion gravy are an American classic that combines simplicity with comfort. Inspired by country cooking, this dish elevates humble ground beef into a rich, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a Sunday family feast. The juicy hamburger steaks are pan-fried until golden brown, then nestled in a silky onion gravy that’s bursting with umami and sweetness from slow-cooked onions.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp oil (for frying)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: a dash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for extra depth
🍳 Instructions & Method
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
- Shape the mixture into 4–6 oval patties, about ¾-inch thick.
Step 2: Sear the Patties
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the hamburger steaks and sear for about 3–4 minutes per side, until browned. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Remove the patties and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and sliced onions. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
Step 4: Simmer the Patties in Gravy
- Return the seared hamburger steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through (internal temp of 160°F/71°C).
- Stir occasionally and spoon gravy over the steaks as they cook.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttered egg noodles.
- Add a side of green beans, cornbread, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
🔁 Tips & Variations:
- Add mushrooms to the gravy for extra richness.
- Use ground turkey or ground pork for a different twist.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
- Add a splash of cream to the gravy for an ultra-luxurious finish.