“Can you believe how quickly dinner can be on the table?” I overheard a friend exclaim last week as I served up a comforting plate of Hamburger Steak with Creamy Country Gravy. That delightful moment piqued my interest, reminding me why this dish has graced my family table so often. In just one skillet, you can whip up this kid-friendly meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also a joy to savor. Tender, seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a six-ingredient gravy create a fusion of flavors sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for weeknight dinners, you can serve them over rice, noodles, or fluffy mashed potatoes. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine and wow your family with this classic comfort food? Why is Hamburger Steak a Family Favorite? Comfort Food: There’s something magical about the savory goodness of hamburger steak smothered in creamy gravy, making it a beloved dish for all ages. Quick Preparation: This one-skillet meal comes together in a flash, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Kid-Friendly: With no chunks of onion, even the pickiest eaters will love digging into this tasty dish. Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, making each meal unique and exciting. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will leave the table happy and satisfied! Explore similar delicious recipes or serving ideas with ease. Hamburger Steak Ingredients • Here’s everything you need for juicy hamburger steaks and creamy gravy! For the Patties Lean Ground Beef – Main protein source; provides rich flavor and texture. Substitution: Ground turkey or ground pork can be used. Breadcrumbs – Binds the patties and adds texture. Substitution: Crushed crackers or oats can be used for a different texture. Egg – Acts as a binder for the patties; no direct substitution suggested. Worcestershire Sauce – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with soy sauce for a different profile, but adjust salt accordingly. Ground Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; adjust based on spice preference. Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste. Onion Powder – Offers subtle onion flavor without chunks, making it kid-friendly; sautéed onions can be included if desired. Garlic Powder – Adds aroma and spice; fresh garlic can also be used, adjusting quantity to taste. For the Gravy Butter – Essential for making the roux; ensure sufficient fat for a successful roux. Flour – Thickens the gravy; gluten-free alternative: use cornstarch mixed with cold water. Ground Cayenne Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; omit if spice is a concern. Milk – Forms the base of the gravy for creaminess; non-dairy milk can be used but may alter taste and texture. Salt and Pepper – For seasoning the gravy; adjust to taste. Optional Sides Egg Noodles or Mashed Potatoes – Suggested for serving to complement the savory flavors of hamburger steak. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hamburger Steak with Creamy Country Gravy Step 1: Prepare the Patty Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ground black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until well combined, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. This mixture will form the flavorful patties that are the foundation of your delicious hamburger steak. Step 2: Shape the Patties Once your mixture is ready, divide it into six equal portions and shape each into a pattie, about ¾ inch thick. Aim for an even thickness to ensure they cook through uniformly. As you form the patties, place them on a plate or a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for the skillet, keeping in mind these will create cherished hamburger steaks. Step 3: Brown the Patties Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the shaped patties. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they are nicely browned and the bottom is caramelized. Gently flip the patties using a spatula, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side until they reach a safe internal temperature, resulting in juicy, satisfying hamburger steaks. Step 4: Keep the Patties Warm Once the patties are fully cooked, transfer them to an oven-proof plate and cover them with aluminum foil. Place the plate in an oven set to 300°F to keep them warm while you prepare the creamy country gravy. This ensures the hamburger steaks remain tender and delicious until you’re ready to serve. Step 5: Make the Roux for Gravy In the same skillet where you browned the patties, lower the heat to medium-low and melt butter. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for about 7 minutes to form a golden roux, stirring continuously to prevent burning. This roux is key to achieving a rich, velvety gravy that perfectly complements your hamburger steak. Step 6: Add Milk and Season Gradually add milk to the roux while whisking continuously, letting the mixture come to a gentle simmer. As it cooks for 2-3 minutes, the gravy will thicken to a creamy consistency. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired, ensuring the flavors are balanced for a perfect harmony in your country gravy. Step 7: Combine and Simmer Carefully return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet, nestling them in the thick gravy. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. This finishing touch will ensure your hamburger steak is engulfed in a rich, creamy sauce ready for serving. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Finally, remove the skillet from heat and serve the hamburger steak with creamy country gravy hot over a bed of egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes. This comforting dish is sure to delight your family and serve as a hearty meal during your cozy dinners, showcasing the magic of homemade comfort food. Expert Tips for Hamburger Steak Choose Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to avoid excess grease while maintaining that juicy flavor everyone loves in hamburger steak. Mix Gently: Combine the patty ingredients carefully; overmixing can lead to tough patties. Aim for a delicate hand to keep them tender. Perfect Patty Size: Form your patties evenly at about ¾ inch thick to ensure they cook through uniformly and remain juicy. Keep It Warm: Place cooked patties in a warm oven while preparing the gravy to enhance their flavor and keep them moist. Whisk for Smoothness: Continuously whisk the gravy as you add milk to prevent lumps and achieve that creamy consistency that pairs beautifully with hamburger steak. Hamburger Steak Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this comforting dish your own with these fun twists and alternatives that will delight your family! Dairy-Free: Use a non-dairy milk for the gravy. Almond or oat milk makes a great substitution without sacrificing creaminess. Gluten-Free: Replace flour with cornstarch for the gravy. Simply mix it with cold water before adding to ensure a smooth texture. Mushroom Lovers: Sauté mushrooms and add them to the gravy for an earthy flavor. The rich combination is a perfect pairing with the beef patties. Extra Spice: For a kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or chili powder into the patty mixture. Spice lovers will enjoy this fiery twist! Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into your beef patties. These aromatic touches lift the flavors beautifully. Easy Prep: Craving a quicker option? Shape the beef mixture into meatballs instead of steaks and serve with the same creamy gravy for a delightful twist. Asian Fusion: Mix soy sauce in place of Worcestershire sauce, and add ginger to the patties for a unique flavor profile. This gives a savory twist that’s oh-so-compelling! Cheesy Indulgence: Consider adding shredded cheese to the beef mixture. Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a creamy surprise in each bite. As you explore these variations, don’t forget to try serving these tasty steaks with some buttermilk biscuits or alongside southern-style green beans for a cozy meal that everyone will want to gather around. Enjoy personalizing your Hamburger Steak experience! What to Serve with Hamburger Steak with Creamy Country Gravy Transform your comforting dinner into a feast the whole family will adore with these delightful side dishes and pairings. Fluffy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up the savory gravy beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Treat each bite as a warm hug! Southern Green Beans: Tender, seasoned green beans add a touch of freshness and a pop of color to your plate, balancing the richness of the steak and gravy. Warm Buttermilk Biscuits: These buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up the remaining gravy on your plate, offering a delightful contrast to the savory steaks. Garlic Butter Noodles: Lightly tossed in garlic butter, these noodles are a fantastic option, providing a soft pillow for the juicy hamburger steaks to rest upon. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort side brings a cozy, cheesy richness that complements the flavors of the hamburger steak, making your dinner a total crowd-pleaser. Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of these carrots enhances the savory notes of the dish. Their vibrant color not only beautifies the plate but also adds a delightful crunch. Sweet Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet tea is the perfect beverage to cool down the richness of the meal, making every sip delightful alongside the comforts of hamburger steak. How to Store and Freeze Hamburger Steak Fridge: Store leftover hamburger steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the gravy is well-covered to maintain its creamy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked hamburger steak and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the gravy thickens too much. This will keep your hamburger steak moist and delicious! Make Ahead Options These Hamburger Steaks with Creamy Country Gravy are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shape the patty mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container, keeping those delicious flavors fresh while saving you time on busy weeknights. The gravy can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply reheat gently on the stove while whisking until warmed through. To serve, brown the patties and directly nestle them in the reheated gravy, allowing everything to simmer together for a delightful, stress-free meal that’s just as scrumptious as if made fresh! Hamburger Steak with Creamy Country Gravy Recipe FAQs What type of ground beef should I use for hamburger steak? Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture while minimizing excess fat. If you prefer, ground turkey or ground pork are great alternatives that can also work beautifully in this recipe. How should I store leftover hamburger steak? Very simply! Place any leftover hamburger steak in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the gravy is well-covered to keep the creaminess intact, ready to be warmed up for your next delightful meal! Can I freeze hamburger steak with gravy? Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cooked hamburger steak and gravy to cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, ensuring the mixture is airtight to prevent freezer burn. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop. What should I do if the gravy is too thick? No worries! If your gravy thickens more than desired, simply add a splash of milk while whisking it over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This little trick keeps it creamy and delightful! Are there any dietary considerations for serving this dish to kids? Certainly! This hamburger steak is designed with kids in mind—it’s free of chunky onions and can be adjusted to lower sodium by using less Worcestershire sauce or making it with low-sodium soy sauce instead. Always be mindful of any food allergies and check all ingredients if you’re serving to children. How can I enhance the flavor of my hamburger steak? If you’re looking to kick it up a notch, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or incorporating sautéed mushrooms into your gravy. Experiment with flavors to create your family’s perfect version of this beloved comfort dish! Juicy Hamburger Steak with Creamy Gravy for Cozy Dinners This Juicy Hamburger Steak is a family favorite, featuring tender patties smothered in creamy gravy, perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 pattiesCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Patties1 pound Lean Ground Beef Ground turkey or ground pork can be used.1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Crushed crackers or oats can be used.1 large Egg2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Use soy sauce as a substitute.1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust based on spice preference.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Sautéed onions can be included if desired.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adjust quantity if using fresh garlic.For the Gravy4 tablespoons Butter Essential for making the roux.1/4 cup Flour Use cornstarch mixed with cold water as gluten-free alternative.1/4 teaspoon Ground Cayenne Pepper Omit if spice is a concern.2 cups Milk Non-dairy milk can be used.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste.Optional SidesEgg NoodlesMashed Potatoes Equipment large mixing bowlSkilletSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine lean ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, ground black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until well combined.Once the mixture is ready, divide it into six equal portions and shape each into a pattie, about ¾ inch thick.Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shaped patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until browned, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.Transfer the cooked patties to an oven-proof plate and cover with aluminum foil. Place in an oven set to 300°F to keep warm.In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low and melt butter, then whisk in flour and cook for about 7 minutes to form a golden roux.Gradually add milk while whisking continuously, letting the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired.Return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet, nesting them in the gravy and allowing everything to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.Serve the hamburger steak with creamy gravy hot over a bed of egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes. Nutrition Serving: 1pattieCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg NotesOpt for lean ground beef to avoid excess grease and overmixing to keep the patties tender. Always keep the cooked patties warm while preparing the gravy to enhance their flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
