If you’re craving classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, Hamburger Steak with Gravy is the perfect choice. This old-fashioned dish features juicy, seasoned ground beef patties simmered in a rich onion and mushroom gravy. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. A Southern favorite with timeless appeal, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Budget-friendly – Uses ground beef instead of expensive cuts of steak. Rich and flavorful – A savory gravy elevates the humble hamburger patty. Classic comfort food – Perfect for family dinners and cozy nights. Customizable – Works with or without mushrooms, and seasoning can be adjusted to taste.
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks
1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
½ medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh) Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Hamburger Steaks
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and paprika until just combined.
Shape into 4–6 oval patties. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear patties for about 4 minutes per side, until browned (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onions and mushrooms, cooking until soft and golden.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in beef broth, then add Worcestershire and thyme.
Simmer until gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Finish the Dish
Return hamburger steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until patties are cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).
Spoon gravy generously over the top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Classic: With creamy mashed potatoes and green beans.
Southern-style: Over white rice with collard greens.
Comfort plate: Alongside buttered egg noodles or biscuits.
Tips & Variations
Make it creamier – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream into the gravy.
Add a kick – A pinch of cayenne or hot sauce gives it extra warmth.
Lean option – Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Meal prep – Patties and gravy reheat well, making this a great make-ahead dinner.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze patties with gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts
Hamburger Steak with Gravy is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and a rich, savory gravy, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels special. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a dinner the whole family will request again and again.