Smothered Hamburger Steak Recipe

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Introduction:

Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than our Smothered Hamburger Steak recipe! This classic dish combines seasoned ground beef patties with a rich and savory gravy, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re craving a taste of nostalgia or simply want to indulge in some down-home cooking, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish that will have your taste buds begging for more.

Why Smothered Hamburger Steak? Smothered Hamburger Steak is a timeless comfort food favorite that’s beloved for its simplicity and deliciousness. Made with humble ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly, this recipe is perfect for feeding a hungry family or satisfying your own cravings. The combination of tender hamburger patties smothered in a savory gravy is pure comfort on a plate, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays alike.

Ingredients:

To make Smothered Hamburger Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup minced onion
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into four equal-sized patties.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the hamburger patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the flour is lightly browned.
  5. Slowly pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Return the cooked hamburger patties to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve Smothered Hamburger Steak hot and fresh out of the skillet for the best flavor and texture.
    • Pair it with classic comfort food sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious gravy.
    • Add some steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.
  2. Garnish Ideas:
    • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
    • For added richness, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a pat of butter before serving.
  3. Customization Options:
    • Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add minced garlic, dried herbs, or spices to the hamburger patties for extra flavor.
    • Experiment with different types of mushrooms or onions for variety in texture and taste.
  4. Storage:
    • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
    • To prevent the hamburger patties from becoming soggy, store them separately from the gravy, if possible.
  5. Reheating:
    • Reheat individual servings of Smothered Hamburger Steak in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
    • For best results, reheat the gravy separately from the hamburger patties to ensure even heating.
  6. Freezing:
    • While Smothered Hamburger Steak is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for longer-term storage.
    • Place individual servings in freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
    • Frozen leftovers can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Smothered Hamburger Steak remains delicious and enjoyable, whether you’re serving it fresh off the stove or reheating leftovers for a quick and satisfying meal.

FAQ’s:

  1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
    • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
  2. How do I know when the hamburger patties are cooked through?
    • The hamburger patties are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. Alternatively, you can cut into the center of a patty to ensure there are no pink areas.
  3. Can I make this recipe without mushrooms?
    • Yes, you can omit the mushrooms if you prefer. You can increase the amount of onions or add other vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
  4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    • The recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, are also gluten-free.
  5. What can I use instead of beef broth?
    • If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
  6. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop before serving, adding a little water or broth to thin it out if needed.
  7. What’s the best way to shape the hamburger patties?
    • To shape the hamburger patties, divide the meat mixture into equal portions and gently form them into round patties using your hands. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the patties tough.
  8. How can I prevent the gravy from becoming lumpy?
    • To prevent lumps in the gravy, make sure to whisk the flour into the onion and mushroom mixture thoroughly before adding the broth. Whisk continuously while adding the broth to ensure a smooth consistency.
  9. Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making it from scratch?
    • Yes, you can use store-bought gravy as a time-saving option. Simply heat the gravy in a saucepan and add it to the skillet with the cooked hamburger patties and onions.
  10. Is Smothered Hamburger Steak suitable for freezing?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftover Smothered Hamburger Steak for up to 2-3 months. Store it in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion:

With its hearty hamburger patties and rich gravy, Smothered Hamburger Steak is a timeless dish that’s guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some old-fashioned comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a taste of home with Smothered Hamburger Steak!

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