Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy

This classic hamburger steak recipe with onion gravy is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Featuring tender, seared beef patties smothered in a rich, caramelized onion gravy, this meal pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes and vegetables. It’s a comfort food favorite made with simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, butter, and Worcestershire sauce. This dish is easy to customize with different meats or seasonings, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Ideal for those searching for savory main dishes, ground beef recipes, or homemade gravy ideas.

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Steaks:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ lbs. ground beef (85% lean)
• 4 tablespoons frozen butter, shredded
• ½ cup yellow onion, very finely minced
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
• 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 yellow onions, sliced into ¾-inch strings
• 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, divided
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup cold water + 3 tablespoons cornstarch

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Instructions

Prepare the Steaks:

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, minced onions, shredded frozen butter, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Avoid overmixing to keep the steaks tender.
2. Shape the mixture into evenly sized oval-shaped patties. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
3. While the patties chill, measure out the remaining ingredients.
4. Remove the patties from the fridge and season both sides with salt and pepper.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, handling them gently. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Gravy:

1. Lower the heat to medium-low and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for added flavor.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water until fully combined and smooth.
5. Bring the gravy to a gentle boil, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Finish the Dish:

1. Return the steaks to the skillet and spoon the gravy over them. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the steaks reaches 160°F.
2. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of cold butter to finish the gravy with a velvety texture.
3. Garnish with parsley and serve with mashed potatoes and roasted carrots for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The caramelized onions and dual broths create a deeply savory gravy.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for hearty family dinners or cozy nights in.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps with ingredients you likely already have.
• Versatile: Pair with a variety of sides to suit your preferences.

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Tips

• Chill the Patties: Refrigerating the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape better.
• Shred Frozen Butter: This technique ensures the butter blends evenly into the meat for juicy, flavorful steaks.
• Caramelize the Onions: Take your time to cook the onions; their sweetness enhances the gravy.
• Don’t Skip the Butter Finish: Stirring in cold butter at the end gives the gravy a luxurious texture.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy.
• Swap the Meat: Try ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the Worcestershire sauce and broths are certified gluten-free.
• Add Vegetables: Include sliced mushrooms or bell peppers in the gravy for added texture and flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, prepare the patties and gravy separately. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Can I freeze hamburger steaks?

• Absolutely! Cooked patties and gravy can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

• Arrowroot powder or flour can be used as a thickener; adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
• Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts.
• For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower mash or steamed broccoli.
• This dish is great for family dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests.