Description
This classic Hamburger Steaks and Gravy recipe features juicy ground beef patties smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy. Perfectly seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, the beef patties are pan-seared to a tender finish, then simmered in a homemade brown gravy with caramelized Vidalia onions. Comfort food at its best, served wonderfully over rice or creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
Units
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For the Hamburger Steaks
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 Vidalia onion, minced
- 3 tsp seasoned salt, divided
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Onion Gravy
- 1/2 Vidalia onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 tsp browning sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, minced onion, and half of the seasoned salt. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors. Shape the mixture into patties about 3-4 inches across, slightly larger than your desired serving size as they will shrink during cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add patties in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook the first side for 3-4 minutes, then cover with a lid and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes. Flip patties carefully and cook to your preferred doneness. Transfer cooked patties to a plate to rest. Repeat if cooking in batches, pouring pan drippings into a heat-safe container between batches.
- Caramelize the Onions: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. When melted, add sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are browned and crispy, approximately 10-12 minutes. Remove onions from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Roux: Return pan drippings to the skillet. Sprinkle in the flour and stir with a wooden spoon or whisk to form a roux. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the roux turns a deep brown color and the raw flour taste cooks off.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Gradually whisk in beef broth and water, adding one cup at a time and ensuring no lumps form. Reduce heat to medium-low and season the gravy with remaining seasoned salt and optional browning sauce. Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Finish Cooking: Return patties to the skillet, turning them to coat evenly in the gravy. Add freshly cracked black pepper. Bring gravy and patties to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve: Serve the hamburger steaks topped with the rich onion gravy. This dish is excellent over cooked rice or creamy mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat but still keep patties juicy.
- Worcestershire sauce adds depth; do not skip or substitute with soy sauce for a different flavor.
- Slower caramelizing of onions over medium heat brings out sweet flavor—don’t rush this step.
- For extra richness, optional browning sauce enhances the color and adds depth to the gravy.
- Can be reheated gently on stovetop; add a splash of water or broth if gravy thickens too much.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 patty with gravy)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg