Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a nostalgic comfort food dish that combines juicy, seasoned ground beef patties with a savory, slow-simmered onion gravy. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug—simple, filling, and deeply flavorful. Often served with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, this dish is a weeknight favorite that tastes like it came from grandma’s kitchen.
The key to this dish lies in the balance of textures and flavors: the seared crust on the beef patties, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the velvety richness of the gravy. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and easy to make in under an hour.
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup chicken broth (or use all beef broth)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon cold butter (for finishing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Hamburger Steaks
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands or a fork—don’t overwork the meat or the patties will be tough.
- Divide the mixture into 4–6 equal portions and shape into oval patties about ½ inch thick.
- Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Step 2: Sear the Patties
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the patties and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
- Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the beef and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Steaks in Gravy
- Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through (internal temp of 160°F/71°C).
- For a luxurious finish, swirl in 1 tablespoon of cold butter just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed potatoes: The ultimate pairing—perfect for soaking up the gravy.
- Steamed rice: A lighter option that still complements the rich sauce.
- Buttered egg noodles: A cozy, carb-friendly base.
- Green beans or roasted carrots: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Storage Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the gravy.
Tips & Variations:
- Add mushrooms to the gravy for extra umami.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Make it gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour.
- Double the gravy if you’re serving a crowd or love extra sauce.
Would you like a Southern-style twist with bacon and cream, or a Salisbury steak version with mushrooms and tomato paste?