Smothered Hamburger Steak is a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food. Featuring ground beef patties smothered in a rich and savory gravy, this meal is both hearty and satisfying. Often confused with Salisbury steak, the key distinction lies in the preparation and gravy types used. Rooted deeply in the culinary traditions of the American South, smothered hamburger steak remains a staple for family dinners and gatherings. Its simplicity in preparation combined with flavorful ingredients ensures its continued popularity among comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients and Preparation :
you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs of lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon of beef base
- 2 tablespoons chopped onions
- 2 eggs
- 3 slices of white bread, crumbled
- Condiments such as Worcestershire sauce and black pepper for seasoning
Here’s how you prepare it:
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the ground beef, beef base, onions, eggs, bread crumbs, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Season with black pepper to taste.
- Form Steaks: Divide the mixture into 8 equal parts and shape them into patties.
- Cook Steaks: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the patties until browned on both sides and cooked through.
- Prepare Gravy: In the same skillet, add ingredients for the gravy—typically a mix of cream of mushroom soup and water. Simmer the steaks in the gravy until thoroughly cooked and the sauce has thickened.
This basic method ensures your hamburger steaks are juicy and flavorful, ready to be smothered in gravy. For a comprehensive look at beef and its uses in dishes like hamburger steak
Cooking Techniques :
Cooking the Steak: The best way to cook hamburger steaks is using a skillet, which allows the meat to sear properly, creating a delicious crust. Here’s a detailed guide on the process:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties.
- Cook each side for about 4 minutes or until a crust forms and the juices run clear.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety.
Making the Gravy: The gravy is what truly sets smothered hamburger steak apart. Here’s how to make a classic mushroom gravy:
- After removing the cooked steaks, use the same skillet to sauté onions and mushrooms.
- Stir in a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and equal parts water.
- Bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the pan, and cook until thickened.
Serving Suggestions :
When serving Smothered Hamburger Steak, choosing the right side dishes can enhance the meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic that pairs perfectly with the rich gravy.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightens the meal and adds a healthful touch.
- Buttered Cornbread: Adds a Southern flair to the dining experience.
Nutritional Information :
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving.
- Protein: High in protein thanks to the ground beef.
- Fat: Contains a significant amount of fat, though using lean meat can reduce this.