Smothered Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

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🍴 Smothered Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

Description

Smothered Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a comforting Southern-style dish made with juicy, seasoned beef patties cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy. This hearty recipe is perfect for family dinners, pairing beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. It’s a budget-friendly meal that turns simple ingredients into a delicious, stick-to-your-ribs dinner.

Ingredients for Smothered Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 works best for flavor)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 large egg

  • ÂĽ cup milk

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

For the Onion Gravy:

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups beef broth

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • ½ tsp thyme (optional)

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Patties:

    • In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika.

    • Form into 4–6 oval patties.

  2. Cook the Steaks:

    • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil and sear the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned.

    • Remove patties and set aside (they’ll finish cooking in the gravy).

  3. Make the Onion Gravy:

    • In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. SautĂ© onions until golden and caramelized (about 10 minutes).

    • Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.

    • Gradually whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add thyme, salt, and pepper.

    • Simmer until thickened.

  4. Combine & Simmer:

    • Return hamburger steaks to the skillet. Spoon gravy over the top.

    • Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes until patties are cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).

  5. Serve:

    • Serve hot, smothered in gravy, with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.

Notes

  • Ground beef with some fat (80/20) gives the best flavor. Leaner beef may be drier.

  • Onion gravy can be made richer with a splash of heavy cream.

  • For extra flavor, add mushrooms along with the onions.

Tips

  • Don’t overmix the beef mixture—this keeps patties tender.

  • Deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine or sherry before adding broth for deeper flavor.

  • Make a double batch of onion gravy—it’s great over mashed potatoes or rice.

Servings

  • Serves: 4–6 people

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Info (per serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~420

  • Protein: 27g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sodium: ~780mg

(Values vary by ingredients used.)

Benefits

  • Protein-rich – Helps build and repair muscles.

  • Comfort food – Warm, hearty, and satisfying for the whole family.

  • Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

  • Versatile – Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the patties and gravy a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stove.

Q: Can I freeze smothered hamburger steaks?
A: Absolutely. Cooked patties and gravy can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I make this without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, substitute crushed crackers, oats, or leave them out (patties may be firmer).

Q: What sides go best with this dish?
A: Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables are perfect.

Q: Can I make it healthier?
A: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce butter, and serve with steamed veggies instead of potatoes.

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