Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of hamburger steaks with the rich, savory goodness of tomato gravy! This classic American recipe is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a total cooking time of only 45 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to make the ultimate hamburger steaks that are bursting with flavor and topped with a luscious tomato sauce. Your new favorite weeknight dinner awaits!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 chopped onion, 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, half of the chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the mixture into four equal patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the hamburger steaks to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through to your desired doneness. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and add the Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the tomato gravy over the top. Cover and let simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the patties to heat through.
- Once done, remove from heat and serve the hamburger steaks hot, generously topped with the tomato gravy. Enjoy with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Tips
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients for the patties, mix gently to avoid toughening the meat. A light hand will yield tender and juicy hamburger steaks.
- Make Indentations: Form a slight indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the tomato gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can balance out the acidity of the tomato sauce if desired.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and quality ground beef can elevate the flavors of your dish. Consider using grass-fed beef for a richer taste.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your hamburger steaks with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables to create a complete and satisfying meal.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil to the tomato gravy for an extra layer of flavor. A splash of red wine can also enhance the sauce beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
