The key to this comforting dish is the rich, caramelized onion gravy that smothers the perfectly seasoned hamburger steaks. As the onions slowly cook down, they release their natural sweetness, which blends beautifully with the savory beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. The result is a velvety gravy that not only enhances the flavor of the juicy hamburger steaks but also adds a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of home-cooked meals that warm the soul. The combination of tender meat and flavorful gravy makes this dish a family favorite, perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, but do not overmix to avoid tough steaks.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Onion Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Add the Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder, and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet with the onion gravy, nestling them into the sauce. Allow the steaks to simmer in the gravy for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have absorbed some of the flavors from the gravy.
- Serve the hamburger steaks hot, smothered in onion gravy. These are perfect with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of steamed vegetables.
