Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe

Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy is a classic American comfort food that brings together the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef patties smothered in a rich, flavorful brown gravy. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your family, this dish offers the perfect combination of simplicity and taste. Tender hamburger steaks drenched in a savory gravy make for a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Recipe Preparation Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or tongs for flipping
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk (for gravy)
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Brown Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer gravy)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
How to Make Easy Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated but avoid over-mixing to prevent tough steaks. Shape the mixture into oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Brown the Hamburger Steaks
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside. Keep them warm.
Step 3: Make the Brown Gravy
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until it’s lightly golden. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Gravy
Allow the gravy to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens. For a creamier texture, you can add heavy cream at this stage. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top of each patty. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides.
Variations
- Mushroom Gravy: Add sautéed mushrooms to the brown gravy for an extra depth of flavor.
- Cheesy Hamburger Steaks: Top each hamburger steak with melted cheese before serving for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Hamburger Steaks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.

Cooking Note
For the best texture, avoid overcooking the hamburger patties, as they can become dry. If you like a thicker gravy, increase the amount of flour slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Hamburger steak with brown gravy is delicious served with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice. You can also add a simple salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Use ground beef with a bit of fat (around 80/20) for juicy hamburger steaks.
- Make sure to season both the hamburger patties and the gravy well to enhance the flavors.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, add a little more flour or let it simmer longer to reach your desired consistency.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy
- Always use fresh ingredients to elevate the flavor of the dish.
- Be sure to brown the patties well before making the gravy to develop a rich, savory flavor.
- Don’t rush the gravy-making process. Let it simmer slowly to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 25g
FAQs
Q: Can I use turkey or chicken for the hamburger steak?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. However, turkey and chicken tend to be leaner, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or a higher-fat content to keep the patties moist.
Q: Can I prepare the hamburger steaks ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can shape the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. The gravy can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked hamburger steaks and gravy?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked hamburger steaks and gravy for up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy is an ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. The savory hamburger steaks paired with rich, smooth brown gravy create a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside your favorite vegetables, this meal will quickly become a family favorite. Try it out today, and enjoy the delicious combination of tender beef and savory gravy that everyone will love!
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Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Brown Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer gravy)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated but avoid over-mixing to prevent tough steaks. Shape the mixture into oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step 2: Brown the Hamburger Steaks
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside. Keep them warm.
Step 3: Make the Brown Gravy
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until it’s lightly golden. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Gravy
Allow the gravy to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens. For a creamier texture, you can add heavy cream at this stage. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top of each patty. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Hamburger Steak with Brown Gravy Recipe