Description: This Hamburger Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy recipe transforms humble ground beef into a comforting and flavorful dish. Tender, juicy hamburger steaks are pan-seared to golden-brown perfection, then bathed in a decadent mushroom gravy that’s savory, earthy, and utterly irresistible. This is a classic comfort food meal elevated with rich, deep flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles for a complete and satisfying dining experience. It’s surprisingly easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 5 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 blend recommended)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs, finely crushed)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for searing
For the Rich Mushroom Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped (about ¼ cup)
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry or dry red wine (optional, but recommended for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steak Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough patties.
Step 2: Form the Hamburger Steaks: Divide the beef mixture into 6 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into an oval or slightly flattened steak shape, about ¾-inch thick. Press lightly to ensure they hold their shape.
Step 3: Sear the Hamburger Steaks: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the hamburger steaks in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd (work in batches if necessary). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply browned and a crust forms. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Step 4: Rest the Hamburger Steaks: Remove the seared hamburger steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the gravy. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 5: Sauté Aromatics for the Gravy: In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Step 6: Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is absorbed and the mixture forms a light golden-brown roux. This step is crucial for thickening the gravy and preventing it from being lumpy.
Step 7: Deglaze and Simmer the Gravy: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This deglazing process adds depth of flavor to the gravy. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened slightly.
Step 8: Enrich the Gravy: Stir in the heavy cream, dry sherry (if using), and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Step 9: Combine and Serve: Return the seared hamburger steaks to the skillet with the mushroom gravy. Spoon the gravy over the steaks to coat them evenly. Let them simmer in the gravy for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Hamburger Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s the kind of meal that brings back childhood memories and makes you feel warm and cozy inside. The combination of tender beef and savory gravy is simply irresistible.
- Rich and Flavorful: The mushroom gravy is the star of the show. The sautéed shallots, garlic, and mushrooms create a deep, earthy flavor that’s enhanced by the beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of sherry.
- Easy to Make: Despite its sophisticated flavor profile, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. It requires minimal ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques.
- Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is an economical protein source, making this a great option for a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Add different types of mushrooms, experiment with various herbs and spices, or serve it with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic pairing for hamburger steak with gravy.
- Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice is another excellent option for soaking up the delicious gravy.
- Egg Noodles: Buttered egg noodles provide a comforting and satisfying base for the dish.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a touch of freshness and color to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are delicious and healthy sides.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the hamburger steak and gravy.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rolls to mop up every last drop of gravy.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix the Beef: Overmixing the ground beef will result in tough, dry patties. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
- Sear for a Good Crust: Searing the hamburger steaks over high heat is essential for developing a flavorful crust. Don’t be afraid to let them brown.
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms will provide the best flavor for the gravy.
- Don’t Skip the Roux: The roux (butter and flour mixture) is crucial for thickening the gravy. Be sure to cook it until it’s light golden-brown to avoid a floury taste.
- Deglaze the Pan: Deglazing the pan with beef broth is essential for adding depth of flavor to the gravy. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer Gently: Simmer the gravy over low heat to prevent it from scorching or splattering.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Make Ahead: The hamburger steaks can be formed ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook. The gravy can also be made ahead of time and reheated gently.
- Freeze Leftovers: Leftover hamburger steak and gravy can be frozen for later use. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving, may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion:
This Hamburger Steak with Rich Mushroom Gravy is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly memorable meal. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering. The tender, juicy hamburger steaks and the decadent mushroom gravy are a match made in culinary heaven. With its rich flavors, comforting texture, and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a cherished family favorite for years to come. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to indulge in a plate of pure comfort food bliss.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be drier than ground beef, so you may need to add a little extra moisture to the hamburger steak mixture, such as a tablespoon or two of milk or broth. Also, turkey may not have the same rich flavor of beef.
- Can I use different types of mushrooms? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms in the gravy. Shiitake, oyster, or even a mix of wild mushrooms would be delicious.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour.
- Can I add vegetables to the gravy? Yes, you can add other vegetables to the gravy, such as diced carrots, celery, or onions. Add them along with the shallots and cook until softened.
- Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? While this recipe is best made on the stovetop for optimal searing and gravy consistency, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Sear the hamburger steaks as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the gravy ingredients (except for the heavy cream) and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
