Hamburger Steak
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Hamburger Steak, isn’t there? Growing up, my family would gather around the dinner table, and the sizzle of burgers cooking in the kitchen always meant that a delicious meal was on its way. I remember my mother expertly mixing the ingredients, her hands almost dancing as she combined everything just right. The warmth of the kitchen, filled with the savory aromas, brought everyone together. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory, a tradition that I cherish.
When I make Hamburger Steak, it feels like I’m sharing a piece of my childhood with those I love. The juicy beef patties topped with a rich onion gravy are nothing short of magical. It’s a dish that allows for creativity; whether you prefer it classic or with a personal twist, every version is a hit. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your home as well!
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
20 mins
40 mins
Medium
450 kcal
35 g
Gluten-Free
22 g
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Peeler
Why This Hamburger Steak Shines
1. Juicy Perfection
One of the standout features of Hamburger Steak is how juicy and flavorful it is. The combination of ground beef, sautéed onions, and rich gravy creates a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. When you take that first bite, the tenderness of the meat combined with the savory gravy is simply irresistible.
2. Customizable Flavors
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the seasoning or add different toppings to match your cravings. Want a little heat? Add some spice! Want a twist? Try incorporating different herbs or sauces. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it special.
3. Quick and Easy
Despite its rich flavors, Hamburger Steak is surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious meal in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
4. Comfort Food Classic
This dish embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel warm and cozy, like a hug from a loved one. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
5. Perfect Pairings
What’s even better is how well Hamburger Steak pairs with various sides. Whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad, you can complement this dish in so many ways. Each pairing enhances the experience!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Hamburger Steak

The flavors of Hamburger Steak come alive through a simple yet effective combination of ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect bite. The star, of course, is the ground beef, which provides a hearty foundation. Onions, garlic, and seasonings enhance the beef’s flavor, while the gravy adds a luscious, comforting finish. Let’s dive into the details of each ingredient!
- 2 large eggs: These act as a binder, helping to keep the patties moist and tender.
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs: They provide texture and help absorb moisture, ensuring the patties don’t fall apart.
- 2 pounds 85/15 ground beef: The ideal fat content gives the patties flavor and juiciness.
- ¼ cup finely minced yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 finely grated garlic cloves: Essential for that aromatic punch.
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory notes of the beef.
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce: A hint of heat to elevate the flavors.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking, adding flavor while keeping the patties from sticking.
- Coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall flavor.
- 2 peeled thickly sliced yellow onions: They caramelize beautifully and create a delicious gravy.
- 2 finely minced garlic cloves: For the gravy, providing that extra layer of flavor.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy to a perfect consistency.
- 4 cups beef stock: Forms the base of the rich gravy.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness to the gravy.
- Coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
The Method for Hamburger Steak

Making Hamburger Steak is a fun and fulfilling process. Each step brings you closer to a mouthwatering meal that fills your home with delightful aromas. Here’s how to create this comforting dish with love and care.
- Start by cracking the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Whisk them together until they’re well beaten. Then, mix in the breadcrumbs and let them sit for about 2 to 3 minutes. This soaking process allows the breadcrumbs to absorb the egg, which will help bind the patties together beautifully.
- Next, add the ground beef, finely minced onions, garlic cloves, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper to the bowl. Use your clean hands to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat; you want the patties to be tender, not tough.
- Now, divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape them into patties. Place them on a plate or platter. This is a great time to ensure they have a nice uniform shape, which helps in even cooking!
- In a large rondeau or sauce pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot, which should take about 90 seconds. You’ll want that oil sizzling to get a perfect sear on your patties.
- Once the oil is hot, gently place the hamburger steaks in the pot. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through yet; they’ll finish cooking later!
- Once browned, set the patties aside on a plate. In the same pot, add the sliced onions. Season them lightly with salt and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking the onions for an additional 10 to 12 minutes. You want them to be nicely caramelized, tender, and rich in flavor. Stir occasionally, ensuring they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for just 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Then sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. This will help thicken your gravy.
- Carefully pour in the beef stock and bring it to a boil. You’ll notice the mixture thickening up. Season it gently with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, add the hamburger steaks back into the pot and let them simmer in the gravy for about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir in butter just before serving for extra richness!
Things Worth Knowing
- Mix Carefully: Be gentle when combining the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
- Soak Breadcrumbs: Soaking the bread in eggs is key for moisture and binding.
- Hot Pan: Ensure your pan is hot enough to sear the patties well; this creates a delicious crust.
- Cooking in Batches: If your pan isn’t big enough, cook in batches to avoid steaming the patties.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding spices or cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Helpful Notes about Hamburger Steak

Here are some tips to ensure your Hamburger Steak turns out perfectly! These insights will help you make the most of your delicious dish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked patties for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock if needed.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare patties ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Pairings: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Great Combinations for Hamburger Steak
- Side Dishes: Hamburger Steak pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Occasions: It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, casual get-togethers, or even meal prep for the week!
- Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve it with roasted root vegetables for a hearty touch.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in a container for quick reheating for those busy weeknights.
- Serving Style: Plate the patties with gravy poured over, garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Hamburger Steak is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor in each bite. With its savory gravy and juicy patties, it’s a meal that brings people together. I encourage you to try making it for your next family dinner; I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy the warmth and love that comes with every serving!

Hamburger Steak
Equipment
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Whisk
- Peeler
Ingredients
- 2 large Eggs
- 1/3 cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 pounds Ground Beef 85/15 fat content for juiciness
- 1/4 cup Onion Finely minced
- 2 Garlic Cloves Finely grated
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Olive Oil For cooking
- Coarse Salt To taste
- Pepper Freshly cracked to taste
- 2 Yellow Onions Peeled and thickly sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic Finely minced for the gravy
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour For thickening the gravy
- 4 cups Beef Stock Forms the base of the gravy
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter For richness in the gravy
- Coarse Salt To taste
- Pepper Freshly cracked to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and then mix in the breadcrumbs. Let it sit for about 2 to 3 minutes until soaked.
- Mix in the ground beef, minced onions, garlic cloves, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Form 6 equal-sized hamburger steak patties and place them on a plate.
- Heat olive oil in a large rondeau or sauce pot over medium-high heat for about 90 seconds.
- Cook the hamburger steaks for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove the patties and add the sliced onions to the pot, seasoning them with salt.
- Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low and cook for another 10 to 12 minutes until caramelized.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Then sprinkle in the flour and mix.
- Pour in the beef stock and bring to a boil, seasoning gently with salt and pepper.
- Add back the hamburger steaks, cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes to heat through. Stir in butter and serve.
Notes
- Tip 1: Avoid overworking the meat to keep patties tender.
- Tip 2: Soak breadcrumbs in eggs for better binding.
- Tip 3: Ensure your pan is hot to develop a good sear.
- Tip 4: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming.
- Tip 5: Consider adding spices to enhance flavor.


