This easy hamburger steak recipe is perfect for family dinners! Juicy patties are cooked in a rich, tasty gravy that’s hard to resist. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice for a cozy meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up, making weeknight meals stress-free. Plus, who can say no to a hearty dish like this? Everyone’s plates are always clean! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean ground beef gives a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90% lean, but keep in mind that the patties may be less juicy.
Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or even cooked rice can work as a binder. This adds a unique twist to texture too!
Onion: Finely chopped yellow or white onions work best for flavor. In a pinch, consider using onion powder instead, but fresh onions give a great depth to the patties.
Beef Broth: You can swap this with chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer, but beef broth gives a deeper flavor that complements the dish well.
Worcestershire Sauce: If you don’t have it, soy sauce can be a substitute, but you might need to add a splash of vinegar for that tangy kick!
How Do You Get Your Hamburger Steaks Juicy and Tender?
Getting the right texture for hamburger steaks involves a few key steps. First, don’t overmix your meat mixture. Just combine enough to hold it together, or your patties can turn tough. Secondly, browning the patties on high heat locks in the juices, giving them a nice crust. Finally, simmering in the gravy helps them remain flavorful and moist.
- After browning, don’t rush the simmering process. Let the patties absorb the sauce by cooking them on low heat for a while.
- If you want extra flavor, let the patties rest in the sauce for a few minutes before serving—this allows them to soak up more goodness!
Easy Hamburger Steak Recipe for Family Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 40 minutes to have a delicious family meal ready. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but also satisfying and comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough!
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into oval-shaped patties, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly. Set aside on a plate.
3. Brown the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties carefully. Brown them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each. When they are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Let the mixture come to a simmer over medium heat. This will pick up all the delicious flavors left in the pan from the patties!
5. Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the flour and water to make a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce in the skillet. Keep stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Cook the Patties in the Gravy:
Return the browned patties to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, so the patties cook through and absorb the gravy flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, serve the hamburger steaks hot, generously topped with the savory gravy. They go perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a heartwarming family meal!
Enjoy this comforting and easy hamburger steak dinner with your family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can certainly use ground turkey for a leaner option! Just keep in mind that turkey may result in slightly different flavors and textures. Ensure you cook the patties thoroughly, as ground turkey is more prone to dryness compared to beef.
Can I Make Hamburger Steaks Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that other ingredients, like beef broth and sauces, are also gluten-free to keep the recipe compliant.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hamburger steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep them moist.
What Sides Pair Well with Hamburger Steaks?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy!