Hearty Hamburger Steaks with Rich Gravy Recipe

The Perfect Hearty Hamburger Steaks

If there's one dish that's guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings, it's a hearty hamburger steak with rich, savory gravy. This recipe not only offers the delicious, familiar flavors of home but also elevates a humble ground beef into something truly special. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply when you're in the mood for something warm and filling, these hamburger steaks won't disappoint. Let's dive into the steps to make this comfort meal a reality.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¹⁄₂ pounds lean ground beef
• ¹⁄₂ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, beaten
• ¹⁄₃ cup bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Preparing the patties is the first step in your culinary journey towards a perfect dinner:

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until everything is well combined.
2. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, shaping each into a patty about ³⁄₄ inch thick.
3. Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are well-browned and cooked through. Set the cooked patties aside on a plate.
4. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Whisk in the flour, cooking it for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add thyme, salt, and pepper, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it thicken for a few minutes.
5. Combine and Finish: Return the patties to the skillet, spooning some gravy over them. Let them simmer in the gravy for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.

✨ Note: Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more or less flour and broth. For a richer flavor, try beef stock instead of broth.

Serving Suggestions:

The beauty of hamburger steak with gravy is its versatility. Here are some delightful ways to serve it:

• With mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a classic pairing.
• Over rice to soak up all that delicious gravy.
• With a side of green beans or a mixed salad for some color and freshness.
• Alternatively, you can slide them into crusty bread for a gourmet steak sandwich experience.

This dish, with its tender beef patties smothered in a luscious gravy, brings comfort with each bite. It's simple enough for weeknight dinners but substantial enough for special occasions. Whether you're hosting a dinner or cooking for one, this recipe showcases the hearty and inviting nature of home-cooked meals.

In the end, the journey of preparing and savoring these hearty hamburger steaks isn't just about feeding the body; it's about warming the soul. The rich flavors, the comforting textures, and the joy of crafting something from basic ingredients into something extraordinary are what make this dish so beloved. By following this recipe, you're not only serving a meal; you're creating an experience, an opportunity to gather around the table and share in life's simple pleasures.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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Yes, you can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently and combine the patties with the gravy in a skillet.

What can I substitute for beef broth in the gravy?

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You can use chicken or vegetable broth as a substitute. For an even richer flavor, try using mushroom broth or bouillon cubes dissolved in water.

How can I make the patties less dense?

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To make the patties less dense, you can add a small amount of milk or water to the mix. Also, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to toughness. Handle the mixture gently when forming patties.