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| Classic Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe |
When you're craving the ultimate comfort food, few dishes can compare to a delicious hamburger steak with brown gravy. Juicy ground beef patties seasoned to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory brown gravy it’s a classic recipe that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations.
Whether you call it hamburger steak, Salisbury steak, or beef patties with gravy, this dish delivers a cozy and satisfying meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner and hearty enough for a Sunday feast.
In this detailed guide, you’ll discover everything you need to prepare the perfect hamburger steak, from equipment and ingredients to cooking tips, variations, and even FAQs.
Let’s get started on crafting this comforting classic!
🥄 Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to gather all the essential kitchen equipment you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- A sturdy skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Plate lined with paper towels
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Having everything ready and within reach will make your cooking process smooth and efficient.
🛒 What Do You Need to Prepare Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy? (Ingredients)
Here’s a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to create mouthwatering hamburger steak with a luscious brown gravy:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
For the Brown Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, sliced thin (optional for onion gravy version)
🥘 How to Make Easy Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Step-by-Step ?
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| Classic Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe |
Step 1: Mix the Hamburger Steaks
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and mustard if using. Mix gently with your hands until just combined don’t overwork the meat to avoid tough patties.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions. Shape each into an oval or round patty about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb — this helps them cook evenly without puffing up too much.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil. Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until a deep brown crust forms. Transfer the patties to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Brown Gravy
In the same skillet (without wiping it clean), add butter and let it melt. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce if using. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet with the gravy. Spoon some gravy over the patties, cover, and let simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This step allows the patties to soak up the rich flavor of the brown gravy.
🌀 Variations
There are plenty of ways to customize your hamburger steak with brown gravy. Here are some popular variations you can try:
- Cheesy Hamburger Steak: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese inside the patty before cooking for a gooey surprise.
- Mushroom Gravy: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a little heat.
- Healthy Option: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and use low-sodium beef broth for the gravy.
- Southern Style: Serve the hamburger steak with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread for an authentic Southern meal experience.
🔥 Cooking Note
While hamburger steak seems simple, a few important points can make all the difference:
- Ground Beef Fat Content: Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest results. Leaner beef can result in dry patties.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients gently to prevent a tough, dense texture.
- Resting Time: After forming the patties, let them rest in the fridge for 15 minutes. It helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
- Flavor Layering: Cook the onions and garlic directly in the same skillet for added depth of flavor in the gravy.
- Skillet Scraps: Use the browned bits left in the skillet to build a richer, more flavorful gravy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Hamburger steak with brown gravy pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Creamy mashed potatoes (the classic pairing!)
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables
- Buttered corn on the cob
- Rice pilaf or buttered noodles
- A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Fresh-baked dinner rolls to soak up every drop of gravy
You can also serve it over egg noodles or creamy polenta for a creative twist!
💡 Helpful Tips
- Indent the Patties: Making a small dimple in the center prevents the patties from puffing up too much.
- Control the Heat: Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the patties before they’re cooked through.
- Taste Test: Cook a tiny piece of the meat mixture before forming the patties to check seasoning levels.
- Use Beef Stock for Richer Flavor: Beef broth is great, but if you have beef stock, it will make the gravy even more flavorful.
- Prep in Advance: You can prepare the patties a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This is great for busy evenings.
🏆 Tips for the Best Hamburger Steak
For the absolute best hamburger steak with brown gravy, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh ground beef and handle it as little as possible.
- Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce — it adds deep umami flavor.
- Brown the patties well before making the gravy; the caramelized bits are crucial for maximum flavor.
- Simmer gently once you add the patties back into the gravy to keep them tender.
- Adjust seasoning after the gravy has thickened; tastes change as sauces reduce.
⏰ Timing Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
🥗 Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 27g
- Sodium: 690mg
❓ FAQs
Can I freeze hamburger steak with brown gravy?
Yes! Allow the cooked hamburger steaks to cool completely, then freeze them with the gravy in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the patties and a gluten-free flour blend to make the gravy.
What’s the difference between hamburger steak and Salisbury steak?
Hamburger steak usually contains simple seasonings, while Salisbury steak often includes more fillers like breadcrumbs, ketchup, or mustard in the mix.
🎯 Conclusion
Few meals hit the spot quite like hamburger steak with brown gravy. It's nostalgic, hearty, and incredibly satisfying the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something unforgettable.
Whether you’re serving it up for a casual family dinner or whipping it up for guests craving comfort food, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.
With the detailed instructions, helpful tips, and tasty variations provided above, you’re fully equipped to make this classic dish better than ever before. Happy cooking and enjoy every savory bite!
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