7 Steps to Make the Best Smothered Hamburger Steak
If you’re craving comfort food, this Smothered Hamburger Steak recipe is a must-try. Juicy hamburger patties are smothered in rich onion gravy and served with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a Southern classic that’s budget-friendly, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Why You’ll Love Smothered Hamburger Steak
This recipe turns simple ground beef into a flavorful, satisfying dish. The onion gravy is rich and savory, the patties stay juicy, and the whole meal comes together in under an hour. It’s homestyle cooking at its finest—just like grandma used to make.
The Secret to Juicy Hamburger Steaks
The trick to keeping the patties moist is mixing the ground beef with egg, bread crumbs, and Worcestershire sauce. This not only holds the patties together but also adds flavor. Browning them before simmering in the onion gravy locks in all the juices.
When to Serve This Dish
Smothered hamburger steak is perfect for a cozy family dinner, Sunday supper, or anytime you want a hearty meal. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles for the ultimate comfort plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup bread crumbs
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 ½ cups thinly sliced onion
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Form into thick patties.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Add oil to a large skillet and warm over medium heat.
Step 3: Brown the Patties & Onions
Fry the patties and sliced onions in the skillet until nicely browned. Remove patties to a plate and keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the onions and pan drippings. Stir well, scraping up brown bits.
Step 5: Add the Broth
Gradually whisk in beef broth. Season with salt and simmer until the gravy thickens (about 5 minutes).
Step 6: Return the Patties
Lower heat, add the patties back to the skillet, cover, and simmer in the gravy for 15 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
Estimated Nutrition (per serving with gravy only):
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Sugar: 2g
Smothered Hamburger Steak
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well, but beef gives the richest flavor.
2. Can I make the gravy creamier?
Absolutely. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk for a creamier onion gravy.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
4. Can I freeze smothered hamburger steak?
Yes, freeze the patties and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
5. What sides go best with this dish?
Mashed potatoes are the classic choice, but you can also serve with rice, egg noodles, or roasted veggies.