Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

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When it comes to cozy comfort food, few dishes hit the mark quite like Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy. This classic Southern-inspired dish features tender, juicy beef patties seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy. Each bite bursts with hearty flavor, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and nostalgic home-cooked meals alike.

This dish brings a rustic charm that reminds you of Sunday dinners at grandma’s table. The caramelized onions simmered in a buttery gravy elevate the humble hamburger patty to something truly special. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles for a meal that’s pure comfort on a plate.

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Ingredients for this Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

• For the Hamburger Steaks:
  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil or butter for searing
• For the Onion Gravy:
  • 1 large onion, sliced into rings
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, shaping them slightly oval and pressing an indentation in the center with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking.

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Step 2: Sear the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil or butter. Once hot, place the hamburger steaks in the skillet and sear them for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they develop a rich brown crust. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as they’ll finish cooking in the gravy. Transfer the seared patties to a plate and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced onion rings and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and golden brown. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

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Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer

Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken slightly.

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Step 5: Return the Patties to the Gravy

Gently place the hamburger steaks back into the skillet, nestling them into the onion gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy is rich and flavorful. Spoon the gravy over the patties occasionally while simmering.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a hearty, comforting meal.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture of the gravy.

Avoid microwaving on high, as it may dry out the patties. Instead, use medium power or a covered skillet for best results.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (Based on 4 servings total)

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. Just make sure to add a bit of extra seasoning or moisture, like grated onion or a splash of milk.

2. What can I serve with hamburger steaks?

Popular sides include mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, green beans, or roasted vegetables. The onion gravy pairs beautifully with anything starchy.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the patties and gravy up to a day in advance and reheat before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day.

4. How do I thicken the gravy more?

If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it in while simmering until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can make it gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the gravy.

6. Can I add mushrooms to the gravy?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms add a deep, earthy flavor. Add them alongside the onions during the gravy step.

7. Can I cook this in the oven instead of on the stove?

Yes. After searing the patties and preparing the gravy, combine them in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

8. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Just use a larger skillet or cook in batches, and make extra gravy so everyone gets a generous spoonful.

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