There’s something about hamburger steaks with onion gravy that just speaks to the soul. It’s a dish that brings together the heartiness of well-seasoned ground beef patties with the rich, savory depth of onion gravy, creating a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The first time I made this recipe, it was an instant hit, transforming a simple ground beef dinner into something special. The onion gravy, with its layers of flavor from beef broth, sherry, and seasonings, perfectly complements the juicy hamburger steaks, making every bite a delightful experience. This dish is a fantastic option for a satisfying family dinner, offering all the flavors of a traditional home-cooked meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup thinly sliced onion
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cooking sherry
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and form the mixture into 8 balls, then flatten into patties.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties and onion until the patties are browned on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the patties and keep them warm.
- Add flour to the skillet with the onions and pan drippings. Use a fork to mix, scraping the bits of beef off the bottom of the skillet. Slowly incorporate the beef broth and sherry, seasoning with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, return the patties to the skillet, covering them with the gravy. Cover and let simmer for another 15 minutes.
Additional Tips
- Making Perfect Patties: Chill the patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better.
- Achieving Rich Gravy: For a deeper flavor, consider using a splash of red wine in place of the sherry, if preferred.
- Serving Suggestions: These hamburger steaks are delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles to soak up the onion gravy.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a little water or beef broth if the gravy needs thinning.
- Customizing the Recipe: Feel free to add mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for an extra layer of flavor.
FAQ Section
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey can be a lighter alternative, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
- Is there a substitute for cooking sherry? Dry white wine, a little vinegar, or more beef broth can be used as substitutes for cooking sherry.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free bread crumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy to make this dish gluten-free.
- How do I prevent the patties from falling apart? Ensure the patties are well mixed and compacted before cooking, and avoid flipping them too soon in the skillet.
- How can I add more flavor to the gravy? Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for deeper flavor complexity.
- What if I don’t have seasoned salt? You can use a combination of regular salt and a little extra garlic powder and onion powder to taste.
Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is more than just a meal; it’s comfort on a plate, offering a deliciously rich and savory experience that’s sure to please. With its straightforward preparation and familiar ingredients, this dish is a wonderful way to bring a touch of homestyle cooking into any home. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or enjoying it as a satisfying solo meal, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.