Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each portion into an oval-shaped patty, about 1 inch thick.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the hamburger steaks in the skillet without overcrowding. You may need to work in batches. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. The patties do not need to be cooked through at this stage. Remove the seared steaks from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the Savory Gravy
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In the same skillet (with any residual beef drippings), melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and mushrooms (if using) and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent and mushrooms have released their moisture.
- Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and mushrooms. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, allowing the flour to cook out.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, a little at a time, to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until the gravy begins to thicken. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Assemble and Bake
- Arrange the seared hamburger steaks in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the hot savory gravy evenly over the hamburger steaks, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the hamburger steaks are cooked through and tender, and the gravy is bubbly. Internal temperature of beef should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread.
Notes
For an even richer flavor, you can use a mix of ground beef and ground pork in your patties. If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can strain the onions and mushrooms out after simmering, or blend a portion of the gravy before combining with the steaks.
