These juicy hamburger steaks are like a hug on a plate! Topped with rich onion gravy, they’re perfect for a cozy dinner any night.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good meat-and-onions combo? I often serve these with mashed potatoes, and let’s just say, the gravy never goes to waste! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like to use 80% lean ground beef for a juicy outcome. If you prefer less fat, opt for 90% lean, but be careful—it might turn out a bit drier. Turkey or chicken can work as a lean substitute as well!
Onion: Both yellow and white onions are great for this recipe. For a sweeter touch, you can try using Vidalia onions. If you’re in a pinch, shallots can be a delicious substitute too.
Breadcrumbs: I often use plain breadcrumbs, but if you have panko on hand, they can add a great crunch. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers.
Beef Broth: Beef broth gives depth to the gravy. If you need a lighter option, vegetable broth works well too. Just remember to check for salt levels when you add seasoning!
How Can I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized for the Gravy?
Caramelizing onions might seem tricky, but it’s simple with some patience! You want those onions to soften and turn golden brown without burning. Here’s how:
- Slice your onions thinly for even cooking.
- Cook them over medium heat with a bit of butter until they’re soft, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally!
- To develop that nice caramel color, lower the heat slightly and let them go for a bit longer until they’re deeply golden. This step is a game changer!
Remember, don’t rush it—slow cooking really helps to bring out that sweetness in the onions!
Juicy Homestyle Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for frying)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a little bit of time for cooking (about 20-25 minutes). So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to serve up these comforting hamburger steaks with onion gravy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let it soak for about 5 minutes until the milk is absorbed, which helps make the hamburgers tender. In a large mixing bowl, mix the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Be gentle when mixing to keep your hamburger steaks nice and juicy.
2. Shaping the Patties:
Next, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into oval-shaped patties about 3/4 inch thick. Make them a bit thinner in the middle to help them cook evenly!
3. Cooking the Steaks:
Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the hamburger steaks and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them browned and cooked through, with a lovely crust. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
4. Making the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, add a couple of tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the sliced onions to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour. Then gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to remove any lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and let the gravy come to a simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens up nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the onion gravy generously over them. Allow everything to simmer together for 2-3 minutes to reheat and meld those delicious flavors.
7. Dig In!
Serve your juicy hamburger steaks hot, generously smothered with onion gravy. They pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be mindful that it may require a little more seasoning since turkey can be milder in flavor than beef.
How Do I Store Leftover Hamburger Steaks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Make the Onion Gravy Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the onion gravy in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth to adjust the consistency if needed.
What Can I Serve with Hamburger Steaks?
These hamburger steaks go wonderfully with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the flavorful gravy. You can also pair them with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
