Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juicy steaks)
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a more tender steak)
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1/4 cup milk
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, for extra flavor in the patties)
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1 egg
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Onion Gravy:
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2 tbsp butter
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1 medium onion, thinly sliced
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1 cup beef broth (or stock)
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1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy gravy)
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
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1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated (but don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender).
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Form the mixture into 4 patties of equal size. You can make them as thick or thin as you like, but thinner patties cook faster.
2. Cook the Hamburger Steaks:
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Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
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Once the pan is hot, add the hamburger steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they are nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C for well-done).
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Remove the hamburger steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Keep them covered to stay warm.
3. Make the Onion Gravy:
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt.
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Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, until the onions are softened, golden brown, and caramelized. Be patient—this adds great flavor to the gravy!
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Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over them and stir well to combine. This will help thicken the gravy.
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Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the gravy thickens.
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If you want a creamier gravy, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir it in. This will make the gravy rich and velvety.
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Stir in the Worcestershire sauce (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve:
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Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over them. Let them simmer in the gravy for a couple of minutes to reheat.
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Once everything is hot and well-coated in gravy, remove from the skillet and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
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Serve the hamburger steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up that delicious onion gravy.
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For a complete meal, add a side of steamed vegetables, roasted carrots, or a simple salad.
Pro Tips:
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Meat Variety: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the hamburger steaks, though they may need extra seasoning to enhance flavor.
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Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more flour or let the gravy simmer longer. For a thinner gravy, add more broth or cream.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the hamburger steaks and gravy in advance. Store the cooked patties and gravy separately in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat when ready to serve.
This Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is an easy, satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The savory flavor of the hamburger steaks combined with the rich, caramelized onion gravy makes for a comforting, delicious meal!
Would you like any side dish ideas or variations on this recipe?