These juicy hamburger steaks are packed with flavor and topped with a rich onion gravy. They’re comforting and perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week!
I love how easy they are to make and how they remind me of home-cooked dinners. Serve them with mashed potatoes or rice, and you’ve got pure happiness on a plate! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for a juicy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90% lean, but be prepared for slightly drier steaks. Ground turkey or mushrooms can also be great alternatives for a lighter version.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but you can swap them with panko for extra crispiness. If gluten-free is a must, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Onions: For the steaks, finely chopped onions add moisture and flavor. In the gravy, yellow onions caramelize beautifully. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even sautéed shallots.
Beef Broth: Homemade beef broth is the best, but store-bought is convenient. If you’re out of beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work too. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor a bit.
How Do I Properly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions brings out their natural sweetness and is crucial for your gravy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. Too high will char your onions.
- Stir occasionally, every few minutes, to promote even cooking.
- Cook them slowly for about 10 minutes until they are golden brown and soft. If they stick, splash a little water or broth to help deglaze the pan.
- Season with a pinch of salt during cooking to enhance sweetness.
Trust me, taking your time here makes a big difference in flavor! Enjoy cooking! 🍳
Juicy Homestyle Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter for frying
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or stock)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix everything, plus another 20-30 minutes to cook the hamburger steaks and onion gravy. Total cooking time is around 45-50 minutes, making this a great option for a satisfying weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and optional thyme. Be gentle while mixing—just until everything is combined. This will keep your steaks nice and tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into oval patties about ¾-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
3. Cook the Hamburger Steaks:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through. They should reach an internal temperature of about 160°F (71°C). Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them on a plate.
4. Make the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, over medium heat until they are caramelized and softened—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this step; the flavor is worth it!
5. Add Garlic and Flour:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well, cooking for about 2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
6. Whisk in the Broth:
Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits left in the pan. Add the Worcestershire sauce and bring the gravy to a simmer, cooking it until thickened, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine and Serve:
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet and spoon some gravy over them. Let them cook together for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors. Afterward, garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
8. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious hamburger steaks topped with onion gravy hot, alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides. Enjoy every bite of comfort!
FAQ for Juicy Homestyle Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative, though it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor. Just be sure to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Hamburger Steaks?
Leftover hamburger steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth for moisture if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce with a dash of vinegar and a tiny bit of sugar. Alternatively, balsamic vinegar or barbecue sauce can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the hamburger steaks and onion gravy in advance! Cook them as instructed, let them cool, and store them in a container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This will save you time on busy nights!
