This Classic Hamburger Steak features juicy, flavorful beef patties smothered in a rich, savory sauce. It’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for dinner!
Honestly, who could resist that warm, saucy goodness? I love serving it with mashed potatoes for the ultimate cozy plate. It’s like a hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Aim for 80% lean for juicy patties. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be a good substitute. Just remember, they may require more seasonings to boost flavor!
Onion: Chop up some yellow or sweet onions for sweetness. If you’re short on onions, shallots or green onions can work in a pinch. I love adding a bit more onion for extra flavor!
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. I’ve even used crushed cornflakes for a crunchy twist!
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness. If beef broth isn’t on hand, chicken broth works too. You could also use a vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Flavored Savory Sauce?
The sauce is crucial for this dish, and here’s how to nail it:
- Start by sautéing the onions until they are soft; this enhances their natural sweetness.
- Combine beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup for a balanced flavor. Each ingredient adds depth!
- Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly until it reaches your desired consistency; this usually takes just a few minutes. Be patient, as this step is worth it!
- Don’t forget to let the hamburger steaks simmer in the sauce. This allows them to soak up that delicious flavor!
Enjoy making your Hamburger Steak! Adjusting these details can create a meal that fits your taste perfectly.
Classic Hamburger Steak with Savory Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Savory Sauce:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp butter
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making it a perfect 35-minute meal from start to finish. You’ll create savory hamburger steaks and a delicious sauce that simmers together for maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
Start by placing the breadcrumbs in a small bowl and pouring the milk over them. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs soak up the milk and soften.
2. Mix the Patty Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs (make sure to break them up if they clump), chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon, being careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to tough patties!
3. Shape the Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick, making sure they’re evenly sized for uniform cooking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
5. Prepare the Savory Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, stirring occasionally. This step adds great flavor to the sauce!
6. Make the Sauce:
Add the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry, mixing well to incorporate. Cook the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
8. Combine and Simmer:
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet and spoon some sauce over the top. Let them simmer together for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your savory hamburger steak hot, drizzled with the sauce. They pair beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy this comforting, delicious meal!
Dig in and enjoy your comforting Classic Hamburger Steak! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just add some extra seasoning, since they tend to be milder in flavor compared to beef!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Hamburger Steaks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Shape the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to separate each patty with parchment paper to prevent sticking!