Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

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Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy: A Comforting Classic

Origin of the Recipe

Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a hearty, comforting dish that originated in the United States, inspired by the flavors of traditional German cuisine. This dish combines the simplicity of a hamburger patty with the rich, savory flavors of onion gravy, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Often served with mashed potatoes or vegetables, it’s a staple in Southern and Midwestern American cooking.

Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, these Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy are the answer! With their juicy beef patties and rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Cultural Significance

Hamburger steaks are a beloved dish in American comfort food culture, often associated with home-cooked meals and family gatherings. The addition of onion gravy elevates the humble hamburger patty into a hearty, restaurant-quality dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a timeless classic.

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Steaks:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Onion Gravy:

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

  • Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor.
  • Herbs: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
  • Cheese: Top the steaks with melted cheese for a cheesy variation.

Tips for Success

  • Use ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20) for juicier steaks.
  • Let the patties rest for a few minutes after shaping to help them hold together.
  • For a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the gravy.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix until well combined, then shape into 4 equal-sized patties.

Step 2: Cook the Steaks

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the patties and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the patties and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy

  1. In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and caramelized.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat.
  3. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them.
  2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
  3. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.

Description

These Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy are a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their juicy beef patties and rich, savory gravy, this dish is sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 400
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Calcium: 6% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Iron: 15% of the DV

(Values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients used.)

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

  • Ground Beef: A good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
  • Onions: Rich in antioxidants and support heart health.
  • Beef Broth: Adds flavor and provides hydration.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy recipe is a hearty, comforting, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its juicy beef patties and savory gravy, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try!

Recommendation

Pair this dish with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It’s also great with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While indulgent, this recipe can be made healthier by using lean ground beef and reducing the amount of butter in the gravy. Adding extra vegetables, like mushrooms or carrots, can also boost the nutritional value. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet, savoring every bite of its comforting flavors.

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