Introduction:
Smothered Hamburger Steak is a classic comfort food dish that combines juicy, seasoned hamburger patties with a rich and savory gravy. Often served with mashed potatoes or rice, this hearty meal is perfect for satisfying cravings and warming you up on a cool evening. The patties are typically made from ground beef and seasoned with simple spices, then cooked to perfection and smothered in a delicious gravy made from onions, mushrooms, and beef broth. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, Smothered Hamburger Steak is a timeless favorite that brings a touch of homemade goodness to the dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, black pepper, 1 tsp salt, onion powder, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Form the mixture into thick patties.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties and onions in the oil until the patties are nicely browned. Remove the beef patties to a plate and keep them warm.
3. Sprinkle flour over the onions and drippings in the skillet. Stir in the flour with a fork, scraping up bits of beef from the bottom as you stir. Gradually mix in the beef broth. Season with 1/2 tsp salt.
4. Simmer and stir over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, until the gravy thickens.
5. Turn the heat to low, return the patties to the gravy, cover, and simmer for another 15 minutes.
6. Serve the smothered hamburger steaks with a big bowl of mashed potatoes.
Variations:
1. Mushroom and Onion Gravy:
– Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
– Caramelize the onions for a deeper, sweeter taste in the gravy.
2. Cheese-Stuffed Patties:
– Stuff the hamburger patties with your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or blue cheese, for a gooey surprise inside.
3. Herb-Infused Patties:
– Mix fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the ground beef before forming the patties for added flavor.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Hamburger Steak:
– Wrap the patties in bacon before cooking for a smoky, savory twist.
5. Spicy Kick:
– Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the ground beef mixture for a spicy version.
– Use spicy brown mustard or hot sauce in the gravy for an extra kick.
6. Creamy Gravy:
– Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy for a richer, creamier texture.
Tips:
1. Quality Beef: Use ground beef with a higher fat content (80/20) for juicier, more flavorful patties.
2. Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ground beef with seasonings, be gentle to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the patties tough.
3. Uniform Patties: Form uniform patties to ensure even cooking. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
4. Brown Well: Sear the patties on high heat to develop a nice crust before smothering them in gravy.
5. Homemade Gravy: Use the drippings from the cooked patties to make the gravy, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
6. Thickening Gravy: If the gravy is too thin, create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water and stir it into the gravy to thicken.
7. Season Layers: Season the beef mixture, the patties during cooking, and the gravy to build depth of flavor.
8. Resting Time: Let the patties rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
9. Side Dishes: Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
By exploring these variations and following these tips, you can create a delicious and comforting Smothered Hamburger Steak tailored to your taste preferences.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!