Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into oval-shaped patties. Press them slightly in the center to help them cook evenly.
Cook the Hamburger Steaks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C). Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Onion Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they become soft and caramelized.
Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Let it cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the soy sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for another 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve: Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spoon the gravy over the top, and let them simmer together for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
Enjoy: Serve your hamburger steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: This dish is best served with mashed potatoes, but it also pairs wonderfully with buttered rice or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The hamburger steaks can be reheated in a skillet or in the microwave. If the gravy thickens too much after refrigerating, you can thin it out with a bit of beef broth or water when reheating.
Variants:
Cheesy Hamburger Steaks: For a cheesy twist, top the hamburger steaks with a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese during the last minute of cooking, letting it melt into the patty before serving.
Mushroom Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions while caramelizing them for a savory mushroom gravy variation. The mushrooms will add extra depth and flavor to the dish.
Spicy Hamburger Steaks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the gravy for a spicy kick.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the hamburger steaks. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute, such as lentils or a store-bought veggie ground meat, for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
FAQ:
1. Can I make the onion gravy ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the onion gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove when ready to serve, and you may need to add a little extra beef broth or water to adjust the consistency.
2. How can I make the hamburger steaks more flavorful? To enhance the flavor of the hamburger steaks, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. You can also experiment with adding finely chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.
3. Can I freeze hamburger steaks with onion gravy? Yes, you can freeze the cooked hamburger steaks and onion gravy separately or together. Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Can I use a different type of meat for the hamburger steaks? Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork to make the patties. Just adjust the seasoning and cook the patties until they reach the correct internal temperature.
5. What sides go best with hamburger steaks? Hamburger steaks pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
This recipe for hamburger steaks with onion gravy is sure to become a family favorite. With its juicy beef patties and rich, savory gravy, it offers all the flavors of comfort food with minimal effort. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s both quick and delicious!
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