Introduction:
Smothered Hamburger Steak is a comforting, savory dish that combines juicy, flavorful hamburger patties with a rich, creamy onion and gravy sauce. Perfectly seasoned and served with mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies, it makes for an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
This dish is a classic favorite in Southern cooking, loved for its hearty flavors and cozy feel.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional for creamier gravy)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined.
Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 patties, depending on the desired size.
Cook the Hamburger Steaks:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
Stir in the soy sauce and heavy cream (if using) for extra richness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Smother the Patties:
Return the cooked hamburger patties to the skillet with the gravy. Spoon the gravy over the patties, then reduce the heat to low.
Let the patties simmer in the gravy for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
Once everything is cooked through and the gravy is thickened, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve the smothered hamburger steaks over mashed potatoes, rice, or any side dish of your choice.
Description: This Smothered Hamburger Steak recipe offers a perfect combination of tender, juicy beef patties covered in a thick, savory onion gravy. It’s a hearty dish that’s full of flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy gravy brings out the best in the hamburger steak, offering a comforting, soul-warming meal. The dish is also versatile and can be paired with a wide range of side dishes, making it a great choice for any occasion.
Tips:
For extra flavor: Add mushrooms to the onion gravy for a rich, earthy taste.
Moisture in the patties: Be sure not to overwork the ground beef mixture, as it can make the patties tough. Mixing gently ensures a more tender texture.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the patties ahead of time, cover them, and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply follow the instructions for the gravy.
Spicy twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gravy if you like a little heat.
Variations:
Cheese Smothered: Add a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking for a cheesy twist.
Turkey or Chicken Patties: For a lighter version, substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding carrots, bell peppers, or celery to the gravy for a veggie-packed version.
Gravy with Red Wine: Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Correction:
Ensure the ground beef is not too lean (85% lean is ideal) so that the patties remain juicy and tender. If the beef is too lean, you might end up with dry patties.
If your gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken.
Enjoy: Now that you’ve perfected your Smothered Hamburger Steak, sit back and enjoy a satisfying, home-cooked meal. This comforting dish is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table, and it’s easy to prepare for a family-friendly, delicious dinner experience. Enjoy!