Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein in the dish, providing a rich and hearty base for the patties.

Egg: Acts as a binding agent to help hold the patties together.

Bread crumbs: Adds texture and helps bind the patties, keeping them moist.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the patties.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Onion: Provides sweetness and aromatic flavor to the gravy.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy, giving it a smooth consistency.

Beef broth: Forms the base of the gravy, adding richness and depth.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy, umami flavor to the gravy, enhancing its complexity.

When preparing the onions for the gravy, take your time to caramelize them properly. Start by cooking them over medium heat, allowing them to soften and release their natural sugars. This process can take about 10-15 minutes, but the result is a deeper, richer flavor that enhances the overall dish. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, proceed with adding the flour and other ingredients to create a luscious, flavorful gravy.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can provide a similar texture and flavor when seasoned well.

• egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water to replace one egg. This works as a binding agent and is suitable for those avoiding eggs.

• bread crumbs - Substitute with oatmeal: Oatmeal can be used as a binder and adds a slightly different texture while still holding the mixture together.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder and less visible in the dish.

• sliced onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and sweeter flavor, which can complement the dish well.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used to thicken the gravy and provides a gluten-free alternative.

• beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option, maintaining a rich flavor without the beef.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce and balsamic vinegar mixture: A mix of soy sauce and balsamic vinegar can mimic the tangy and savory notes of Worcestershire sauce.

• For a quick and easy method, use the microwave. Place the hamburger steak and gravy in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to prevent splatters. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, then check the temperature. Stir the gravy and flip the steak halfway through to ensure even heating. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

• To retain the juiciness and flavor, reheat on the stovetop. Place the hamburger steak and gravy in a skillet over low to medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap moisture. Stir occasionally and flip the steak to ensure even heating. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy is too thick, and heat until everything is warmed through.

• For a crispy exterior, use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hamburger steak in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. For the last 5 minutes, remove the foil and spoon some gravy over the steak to keep it moist.

• If you have an air fryer, it can be a great option for reheating. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the hamburger steak in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. Check halfway through and flip the steak for even cooking. Heat the gravy separately in a small saucepan on the stovetop or microwave and pour it over the steak before serving.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper into a uniform mixture.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the patties and onions, allowing for even browning and sautéing.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the patties in the skillet to ensure they are browned on both sides.

• Knife: Used to slice the onion into even pieces for cooking.

• Cutting board: A surface on which to safely slice the onion.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the bread crumbs and beef broth accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, pepper, flour, and Worcestershire sauce precisely.

• Whisk: A tool used to stir the flour into the onions and to mix the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the gravy smoothly.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and measure out the bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made beef patties: Save time by using store-bought ground beef patties instead of forming your own.

One-pan method: Cook the patties and onions in the same skillet to reduce cleanup and enhance flavor.

Quick thickening: Mix flour with a little beef broth before adding to the skillet for faster gravy thickening.

Simmer efficiently: Cover the skillet to speed up the heating process when returning the patties to the gravy.