Introduction
Smothered Hamburger Steak is a classic comfort food that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and hearty textures. This dish features juicy seasoned beef patties smothered in a luscious onion gravy, creating a perfect pairing for fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe promises satisfaction for everyone at the table. The blend of seasonings, combined with the savory gravy, makes this dish an all-time favorite that evokes feelings of home and warmth.
Detailed Ingredients
1lb. ground beef
1 egg
1/3 cup bread crumbs
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp. oil
1 1/2 cups thinly sliced onion
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1/2 tsp. salt
Prep Time
Preparation is key to any successful dish. This recipe requires approximately 15 minutes to gather and prepare your ingredients, ensuring you have everything at hand for a seamless cooking experience.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for Smothered Hamburger Steak is about 30 minutes, which includes frying the patties and sautéing the onions, as well as simmering the gravy. In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes from start to finish. This dish typically yields about 4 servings, depending on the portion sizes.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, black pepper, salt, onion powder, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands to combine the ingredients until they are well incorporated. Once combined, form the mixture into thick patties, about 1-inch thick.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that when you add the patties, they sizzle.
Step 3: Cook the Patties and Onions
Add the formed patties to the skillet, along with the thinly sliced onions. Fry the patties and onions in the hot oil until the patties are nicely browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Make sure to stir the onions occasionally to prevent them from burning.
Step 4: Remove and Keep Warm
Once the patties are browned, remove them from the skillet and place them onto a plate. Cover them with aluminum foil to keep them warm while you prepare the gravy.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the onions and the drippings left in the skillet. Use a fork to stir the flour into the onions, scraping any browned bits of beef off the bottom of the skillet. This step adds depth of flavor to your gravy.
Step 6: Add Beef Broth
Gradually mix in the beef broth while constantly stirring, ensuring a smooth mixture without lumps. The broth will help deglaze the skillet and incorporate all the flavorful bits from the bottom.
Step 7: Season the Gravy
Season the gravy with a touch of salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The gravy should thicken as it simmers.
Step 8: Return Patties and Simmer Again
Once the gravy has reached the desired thickness, reduce the heat to low, and return the browned patties to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let the patties simmer in the gravy for an additional 15 minutes, allowing them to soak up the delicious flavors.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, dish out a generous portion of the patties along with a good ladle of gravy over the top. They pair beautifully with a big bowl of mashed potatoes or your favorite side dish.
Notes
– You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish without compromising flavor.
– Feel free to add mushrooms or bell peppers to the gravy for additional texture and taste.
– If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply add more flour gradually while stirring, making sure to avoid any lumps.
Cook Techniques
– Browning: Searing the patties in hot oil will develop a crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
– Deglazing: Scraping the bottom of the skillet while adding broth will ensure that you capture all the flavor left behind during the browning process.
– Simmering: Allowing the patties to simmer in the gravy not only enhances the flavor but also ensures they remain juicy and tender.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two before cooking. Additionally, the gravy can also be made in advance, just make sure to reheat it gently before serving.
What can I serve with Smothered Hamburger Steak?
This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread for soaking up the gravy. Steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad also make excellent side dishes.
Is Smothered Hamburger Steak suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! The cooked patties and gravy can be portioned out and frozen for later use. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I use low-sodium beef broth?
Yes, using low-sodium beef broth is an excellent way to control the salt content in the gravy while maintaining the same delicious flavor.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Certainly! Adding cheese on top of the patties just before serving creates a delicious melty layer. Cheddar or Monterey Jack works particularly well.
Conclusion
Smothered Hamburger Steak is a heartwarming classic that brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite. This dish is simple to make yet provides immeasurable comfort, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. With tender beef patties immersed in savory onion gravy, it’s hard not to go back for seconds. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll have a scrumptious meal that everyone will love. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish!
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