The hamburger steaks, with their juicy, perfectly seasoned patties, are a comforting and rich dish, made even better by the deep flavors of the onion gravy that envelops them. Pairing beautifully with mashed potatoes or buttered rice, the dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
With the savory gravy and tender beef, this dish brings together the warmth and satisfaction that makes it a go-to comfort meal. The rich texture of the gravy and the meaty patties offer a balanced, filling meal that will have your family asking for seconds. It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with a variety of sides like steamed vegetables or even crusty bread for mopping up that delicious gravy!
Full recipes:
Ingredients:
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1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion
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1 egg
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Onion Gravy:
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 cup beef broth
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1/2 cup water
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1 teaspoon soy sauce
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix to keep the patties tender.
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Shape the mixture into four patties.
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Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook over medium heat until softened and caramelized (about 10 minutes).
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Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring to combine. Cook for 2 minutes.
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Slowly add beef broth, water, and soy sauce while stirring. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
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Season the gravy with salt and pepper. Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet and spoon the gravy over the patties. Let them simmer for a few minutes.
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Serve hot with mashed potatoes or your favorite side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a classic American comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a dish that brings together the richness of seasoned beef patties with the savory, caramelized flavor of onion gravy. Unlike regular hamburgers, these beef patties are thicker and are cooked more like steaks, which allows them to soak up the deep, savory gravy, making each bite tender and flavorful. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a weeknight meal, or any occasion where you need a hearty, satisfying meal. With its simplicity and delicious flavors, it’s no wonder Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy has become a household favorite.
The History of Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
While the exact origins of Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy are hard to pinpoint, it’s widely believed to be rooted in traditional American home cooking. The concept of a “hamburger steak” dates back to the 19th century, and the combination of beef patties with gravy can be traced to comfort food traditions found in many cultures. The use of onion gravy adds a rich, sweet contrast to the savory meat, making it the perfect pairing for any cut of beef.
This dish is often associated with working-class meals due to its simplicity and use of affordable ingredients. Ground beef, the primary component of hamburger steaks, was once considered an inexpensive yet flavorful choice for families. Over time, Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy has evolved into a dish enjoyed by people from all walks of life. It’s now a go-to comfort food for many.
Why Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is the Best
This dish is more than just a comforting meal; it offers several benefits that make it a fantastic choice for any home cook.
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Simple Yet Flavorful: One of the best things about Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is how simple it is to make. With just a few ingredients—ground beef, onions, and basic seasonings—you can create a delicious, flavorful meal that feels special without being complicated.
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Versatile: While the dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice, you can serve it with a wide range of sides. It goes well with everything from roasted vegetables and noodles to buttery corn on the cob or steamed green beans. You can also add mushrooms to the gravy to elevate the flavor even further. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences and the ingredients you have on hand.
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Family-Friendly: The hearty, filling nature of this dish makes it an excellent choice for feeding the whole family. Whether you have picky eaters or are serving a large group, Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy satisfies everyone. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping.
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Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something about the combination of beef and gravy that provides a sense of warmth and comfort. Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is the kind of dish that leaves you feeling full and content, making it ideal for cozy evenings or when you need a comforting meal.
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Affordable: For anyone looking for an affordable yet hearty meal, this recipe is a winner. Ground beef is relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of meat, making it a great choice for budget-conscious cooks. The addition of onions and simple seasonings makes the dish flavorful without breaking the bank.
Health Benefits of Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Although Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is traditionally a comfort food, it can still offer some nutritional benefits, especially when prepared thoughtfully.
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Protein-Packed: Ground beef, the star of this dish, is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Including protein in your meals helps keep you full longer, making this dish not only satisfying but also nutritious.
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Rich in Iron: Beef is also a great source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing iron-deficiency anemia.
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Onions for Heart Health: The caramelized onions used in the gravy add more than just flavor. Onions are rich in antioxidants and contain compounds that may help improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and inflammation.
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Customizable for Health Needs: If you’re looking for ways to make this dish even healthier, consider swapping out the beef for leaner meats like turkey or chicken, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. The gravy can also be made lighter by using less butter and substituting with a healthier fat.
Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
To make sure your Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ground beef with seasonings, be careful not to overmix. Overworking the meat can make the patties tough. Simply mix until the ingredients are combined, and then form the patties.
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Caramelize the Onions: The key to a rich and flavorful gravy is properly caramelizing the onions. Take your time with this step. Allow the onions to cook slowly over medium heat until they are golden brown and tender. This process brings out the natural sweetness in the onions and enhances the flavor of the gravy.
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Adjust the Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more water or broth to thin it out. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken. The perfect gravy should be smooth and coat the back of a spoon.
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Add Extra Flavor with Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami flavor to both the patties and the gravy. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it. This sauce is a key ingredient in giving the dish its signature taste.
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Serve with Sides: As mentioned earlier, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. If you want to make it a well-rounded meal, add a green vegetable on the side like steamed broccoli or green beans.
Conclusion
Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a timeless comfort food dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Its rich, savory gravy and juicy beef patties make it a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish will impress with its hearty taste and warmth. With its affordable ingredients and easy preparation, it’s no wonder Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a beloved meal in homes across America. Try it for yourself and enjoy a comforting, delicious dinner that everyone will love.