Go Back
A juicy hamburger steak smothered in rich brown gravy with caramelized onions, served alongside mashed potatoes and green beans.

Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy Recipe – Southern-Style Comfort Dinner with Rich Brown Gravy

This Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy is a timeless comfort food favorite that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Seasoned ground beef patties are pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a rich, savory onion gravy that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice. It’s a hearty, budget-friendly dinner that brings Southern-style warmth to your table. Ideal for weeknights or Sunday suppers, this dish is satisfying, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Hamburger steak patties, Onion gravy
Cuisine Southern / American
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Whisk
  • Knife + cutting board
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Gravy:

  • 1 large yellow or sweet onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp butter or oil
  • Optional: ½ cup sliced mushrooms, ½ tsp dried thyme

For Serving:

  • Mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles
  • Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Make the Patties

  • In a bowl, gently mix ground beef with onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Form into 4 thick oval-shaped patties. Chill for 15 minutes to help them hold shape.

Step 2: Sear the Patties

  • Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear patties 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

  • In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook over medium heat for 10–15 minutes until golden.
  • Add garlic and optional mushrooms; cook 1–2 minutes more.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

  • Sprinkle flour over onions and stir to coat.
  • Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Add thyme if using. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

  • Return patties to skillet and nestle into the gravy.
  • Cover and simmer 10–15 minutes until cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

  • Plate over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
  • Spoon gravy on top and garnish with parsley or chives.

Notes

  • Beef Tip: Use 80/20 ground chuck for best flavor and moisture.
  • Gravy Tip: Whisk flour thoroughly before adding broth to avoid lumps.
  • Make-Ahead: Gravy can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze patties and gravy separately for up to 2 months.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening.
 
Keyword easy weeknight meal, ground beef recipe, hamburger steak, onion gravy, skillet dinner, Southern comfort food