· Serve the hamburger steaks hot, smothered in a generous amount of onion gravy.
· Perfect Pairings: Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or creamy polenta are classic choices to soak up the gravy. A simple side of green beans or corn completes the meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Smothered Hamburger Steak
· Don’t Overmix the Meat: This is the #1 rule for tender patties. Mix until the ingredients are incorporated, then stop.
· The Thumbprint Trick: Pressing a slight indentation into the center of the patty prevents it from puffing up into a ball as the proteins contract during cooking.
· Get a Good Sear: Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the patties. A good sear equals big flavor.
· Caramelize Your Onions: Don’t rush this step! Cooking the onions slowly until they are soft and golden is what gives the gravy its deep, sweet, savory flavor.
· Cook the Roux: After adding the flour to the onions, let it cook for a minute or two until it smells a bit nutty. This gets rid of the raw flour taste and ensures your gravy won’t be pasty.
· Low and Slow Simmer: The final simmer is crucial for making the patties tender and infusing them with the gravy’s flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead?
A: Yes, but use ground turkey thigh for more fat and flavor. The cooking method is the same.
Q: My gravy is too thin. How can I thicken it?
A: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering gravy and let it cook for a minute until thickened.
Q: My gravy is too thick. How can I thin it?
A: Simply whisk in a little more beef broth or water, a few tablespoons at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day. Let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes. The patties and gravy freeze well together for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
