Hamburger Steaks with Gravy

Hamburger steaks and gravy offer a warm, comforting meal that comes together in under 45 minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have. This dish features juicy, tender beef patties smothered in a rich, buttery onion soup–infused gravy, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. It’s a taste of home that’s quick enough for weeknights but comforting enough for any day.

I first cooked this recipe on a busy weeknight and was amazed how quickly it came together. Now it’s become a family favorite, with everyone asking for that delicious gravy.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: for searing—the quality makes a difference a good extra virgin adds subtle flavor
• Ground beef: provides the hearty base—choose 80/20 for juiciness and flavor
• Eggs: help bind the patties so they hold together perfectly
• Panko or regular breadcrumbs: to keep the texture tender Panko gives a lighter bite
• Dried onion soup mix: adds a seasoned, savory note throughout reserve half for gravy
• All purpose flour: is the thickening agent for the gravy choose fresh for smoothness
• Butter: gives the gravy its rich creaminess unsalted allows control over saltiness
• Water and milk: combine for the gravy liquid whole or 2% milk enriches the sauce
• Worcestershire sauce: enhances the gravy with a tangy umami depth

Instructions

Sauté the hamburger steaks:

Add ground beef eggs breadcrumbs and half of the onion soup mix to a large mixing bowl. Mix until everything is well combined but do not overwork the meat. Shape the mixture into four equal patties or smaller if desired. Drizzle a skillet with olive oil and heat over medium high. Place patties in the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. Using a lid on the skillet helps cook faster. Remove patties and set aside without wiping out the skillet.

Make the gravy:

Add butter to the same skillet over medium heat. Once melted sprinkle in the flour along with Worcestershire sauce and the remaining onion soup mix. Whisk constantly the mixture will look thick and lumpy at first. Slowly pour in water and milk while continuing to whisk. Let the gravy simmer gently whisking until smooth and thickened. This process removes lumps and brings out a velvety texture.

Combine and serve:

Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet coating them generously with the warm gravy. Let everything heat together for a few minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve the steaks and gravy over mashed potatoes or your favorite sides for that classic comforting dinner.

My favorite ingredient is the dried onion soup mix because it infuses both the patties and the gravy with layers of savory flavor that are hard to replicate from scratch. I remember my first attempt cooking this for a family gathering and the crowd went wild over how tender and flavorful the steaks were.

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat place the hamburger steaks and gravy in an oven safe dish and cover with foil. Add a splash of broth or water to keep them moist. Warm in a 250 degree oven until heated through about 20 to 30 minutes.

Ingredient substitutions

If you don’t have dried onion soup mix you can substitute with a teaspoon of onion powder mixed with a teaspoon of garlic powder and a bit of salt. For gluten free options use gluten free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives like rice flour or a gluten free all purpose blend.

Serving suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes but also try it with buttered noodles steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a well rounded meal.

This comforting hamburger steaks and gravy recipe is simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. Keep the gravy smooth by adding liquids slowly and searing the patties well for the best texture.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I make the gravy smooth without lumps?

Whisk the butter, flour, Worcestershire sauce, and onion soup mix well before gradually adding milk and water while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.

→ What is the best way to cook hamburger steaks evenly?

Cook over medium-high heat, flipping halfway through, and use smaller patties to reduce cooking time and ensure even cooking.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead and reheat it?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated. Reheat in the oven at 250°F with added broth or water to keep the steaks moist.

→ What sides pair well with hamburger steaks and gravy?

Creamy mashed potatoes, a vegetable casserole, or homemade dinner rolls complement this dish perfectly.

→ How do I know when the hamburger steaks are fully cooked?

They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F, measured with a meat thermometer without touching the pan's bottom.