Easy Hamburger Steak Recipe With Homemade Gravy: American Style

This classic hamburger steak recipe creates tender patties covered in rich brown gravy that melts in your mouth. The homemade gravy adds extra flavor that makes this dish special for any family dinner or weekend meal.

Ingredients

For the hamburger steaks:

- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 mix)

- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

- 1 large egg

- 1/4 cup milk

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the gravy:

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 2 cups beef broth

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 medium onion, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything together gently with your hands until all ingredients are well combined, but do not overmix as this can make the patties tough.

2. Shape the patties: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each one into an oval patty about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure each patty is the same size so they cook evenly in the pan.

3. Cook the hamburger steaks: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the patties from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt completely. Add the sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the flour and remove any raw taste.

5. Finish the gravy: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

6. Combine and serve: Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet with the gravy and let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes to heat through and absorb some of the gravy flavors. Serve immediately while hot.

These helpful tips will ensure your hamburger steak recipe turns out perfect every time you make it. Here are the most important things to remember when making hamburger steak:

- Choose the right meat blend: Use ground beef with 80% lean meat and 20% fat for the best flavor and texture. This ratio keeps the patties juicy without being too greasy.

- Don't overmix the meat: Mix the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing makes the meat tough and dense instead of tender and light.

- Let the mixture rest: Allow the meat mixture to sit in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping. This helps the ingredients bind together better.

- Make an indent in each patty: Press a small dent in the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents the patties from puffing up too much during cooking.

- Control the cooking temperature: Cook over medium-high heat to get a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

- Don't press the patties: Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula while cooking, as this squeezes out the juices and makes them dry.

The right side dishes can turn your hamburger steak recipe into a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will remember. Here are delicious options to serve alongside your hamburger steak:

- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to hamburger steak and gravy. The smooth texture soaks up the rich gravy beautifully, creating the ultimate comfort food combination.

- Green Beans: Fresh or frozen green beans provide a healthy, colorful contrast to the rich meat dish. Steam them lightly and season with butter, salt, and pepper for the best flavor.

- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add natural sweetness and bright color to your plate. Cut them into sticks, toss with olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender.

- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn kernels or whole corn on the cob brings a fresh, summery taste to the meal. Butter and a sprinkle of salt make this simple side dish perfect.

- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce and parmesan cheese provides a fresh, light balance to the heavy hamburger steak. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the meat.

- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Fluffy baked sweet potatoes offer natural sweetness and extra nutrition to your dinner. Top them with butter and a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

- Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms cooked in butter and garlic complement the beef flavors perfectly. Use button mushrooms or a mix of different varieties for more interesting textures.

- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy on your plate. Choose buttery rolls that will melt in your mouth.

- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich hamburger steak. The cool, crisp vegetables cleanse your palate between bites of meat.