What makes a comforting weeknight dinner truly unforgettable? A hearty hamburger steak smothered in rich homemade gravy, made easy with just ground beef and a few simple pantry staples. Try whipping up this quick family favorite for a satisfying meal, save this idea for your next busy evening.

Hamburger Steak & Gravy

Introduction

Hamburger steak and gravy, a classic comfort food dish that never goes out of style, is easier to make than you think, using everyday ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. With its rich, meaty flavor and velvety gravy, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend meal planner, hamburger steak and gravy is a great option that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and umami flavors, using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: With a simple and straightforward preparation process, you can have this dish on the table in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings or special occasions.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its ease of preparation, hamburger steak and gravy is a show-stopping dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends with its rich, meaty flavor and tender texture.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in this recipe include ground beef, onions, garlic, all-purpose flour, beef broth, and gravy seasoning. You’ll also need some oil or butter for browning the steak. When it comes to substitutions, you can use ground turkey or pork if you prefer, and you can also add other ingredients like mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy for added flavor. For a gluten-free option, be sure to use gluten-free flour and check the ingredients of your beef broth and gravy seasoning.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Measure out the flour, beef broth, and gravy seasoning.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until they’re just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Step 3: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a thin steak. Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a couple of tablespoons of oil or butter. Brown the steaks on both sides, then remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the flour to the skillet, whisking to combine with the drippings. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly whisk in the beef broth and gravy seasoning. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring constantly.

Handy Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks are cooked to a safe internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).
• Don’t overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the steaks tough and dense.
• Use a high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
• Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Heat Control

When cooking the steaks, it’s essential to use the right heat to achieve a nice brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Start with a medium-high heat to sear the steaks, then reduce the heat to medium to finish cooking them. Use a thermometer to ensure the steaks are cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the browned crust on the steaks and the sautéed onions in the gravy. To achieve this, be sure to not overcrowd the skillet when browning the steaks, and cook the onions until they’re softened and lightly browned.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a cast-iron skillet to cook the steaks, as this will help to distribute the heat evenly and create a nice crust.
• Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for added depth of flavor.
• Use a roux to thicken the gravy, as this will help to create a smooth and velvety texture.

Storage Tips

• Let the steaks and gravy cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
• Store the steaks and gravy in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat the steaks and gravy in the skillet or oven until hot and bubbly.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While hamburger steak and gravy may not be the most obvious gift option, it’s actually a great idea for a comforting and satisfying meal. Consider packaging the steaks and gravy in a decorative tin or container, along with some crusty bread or mashed potatoes. You could also add some fresh herbs or a side salad for a complete meal.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding some diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy for added flavor and nutrients.
• Use different seasonings, such as paprika or garlic powder, to give the steaks a unique flavor.
• Add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to the gravy for an extra-rich and creamy sauce.

Troubleshooting

• If the steaks are too dense or tough, it may be because the meat mixture was overmixed. Try to mix the ingredients just until they’re combined, then stop mixing.
• If the gravy is too thin, try whisking in a little more flour or cornstarch to thicken it.
• If the steaks are overcooked, try reducing the heat or cooking time to prevent this in the future.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the steaks and gravy for up to 2 months. Simply let them cool completely, then package them in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and checking the ingredients of the beef broth and gravy seasoning.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Hamburger steak and gravy is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and customize to your taste preferences. With its rich, meaty flavor and velvety gravy, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend meal planner, hamburger steak and gravy is a great option that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting and satisfying flavors of hamburger steak and gravy!