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#### **Instructions:**
1. **Make the Hamburger Steaks:**
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
– Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into oval or round patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
2. **Cook the Hamburger Steaks:**
– Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the hamburger steaks.
– Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the patties should reach 160°F (71°C) for well-done beef.
– Remove the hamburger steaks from the skillet and set them aside. Keep them warm by covering them loosely with foil.
3. **Make the Onion Gravy:**
– In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
4. **Thicken the Gravy:**
– Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
– Gradually add the beef broth to the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can add a little water or more broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. **Finish the Gravy:**
– Season the gravy with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of heavy cream (if using). Stir well and taste for seasoning adjustments.
6. **Serve the Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy:**
– Place the cooked hamburger steaks back into the skillet with the onion gravy. Spoon the gravy over the patties and let them simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
– Serve the hamburger steaks with the onion gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside your favorite vegetables.
### **Tips for Perfect Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy**
1. **Don’t Overmix the Meat**: When combining the ground beef with the breadcrumbs and seasonings, be careful not to overmix. Overworking the meat can result in tough hamburger steaks. Mix until everything is just combined.
2. **Use the Right Fat Content**: For juicy and flavorful hamburger steaks, choose ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. The fat provides flavor and moisture, which keeps the patties tender and juicy.
3. **Caramelize the Onions Slowly**: The key to a rich, flavorful gravy is the caramelization of the onions. Be patient and allow them to cook low and slow, developing a deep, sweet flavor.
4. **Make the Gravy Ahead of Time**: You can make the onion gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it on the stovetop, and when ready, pour it over the freshly cooked hamburger steaks.
5. **Use Fresh Herbs**: Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor of both the hamburger steaks and the gravy. Add them toward the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
###
**Creative Variations for Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy**
While the classic version of Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few creative variations:
1. **Cheesy Hamburger Steaks**: Add shredded cheddar cheese on top of the hamburger steaks during the last minute of cooking. Allow it to melt into the patty for a gooey, cheesy addition.
2. **Mushroom Gravy**: For a richer, earthier flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms to the onion gravy. Simply cook the mushrooms with the onions until they release their moisture and become tender, then proceed with the rest of the gravy steps.
3. **Spicy Onion Gravy**: Add a touch of heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the gravy. This adds a spicy kick to balance the richness of the beef and gravy.
4. **Gluten-Free**: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, substitute the flour with cornstarch to thicken the gravy. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the hamburger steaks.
### **Conclusion**
Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is the epitome of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family dinner. The juicy hamburger patties paired with the rich, savory onion gravy will have you coming back for seconds.
By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided in this article, you’ll be able to prepare this classic Southern dish with ease. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and add your own personal touch to make this dish your own. One thing’s for sure—Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy will quickly become a favorite in your household!
