Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy are the definition of comfort food—juicy beef patties pan-seared to perfection, then smothered in rich, savory onion gravy. This classic dish is hearty and satisfying, bringing back nostalgic memories of home-cooked meals. The caramelized onion topping and silky gravy elevate the simple ground beef to a soul-warming entrée.

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up every bit of the flavorful gravy. It’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or any time you crave something deeply comforting and uncomplicated. Whether served in a skillet straight to the table or plated with vibrant greens on the side, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
- For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
- For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steak Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—overmixing can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Shape and Sear the Patties
Form the meat mixture into 4 to 5 oval-shaped patties, pressing them slightly thinner in the center to ensure even cooking. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties on both sides for about 3–4 minutes per side, until well-browned. Remove and set aside. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked through yet.
Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the sliced onions. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and caramelized. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir for 1–2 minutes until the flour is golden and incorporated.
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Return Patties to the Skillet
Nestle the seared hamburger steaks into the gravy, spooning some over each patty. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the patties are fully cooked and flavors meld.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, topped with extra gravy and onion slices. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Best enjoyed with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration:
Store leftover hamburger steaks and onion gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the dish cools completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing:
You can freeze cooked hamburger steaks and gravy for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or wrap portions tightly in foil and place them in zip-top freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
To reheat, place the steaks and gravy in a skillet over medium-low heat and warm until heated through, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy thickens too much.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option, but the flavor will be slightly different and you may want to add extra seasonings.
2. How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough binder (egg and breadcrumbs), and avoid flipping them too early when searing.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.
4. What can I serve this with besides mashed potatoes?
Great alternatives include buttered egg noodles, white rice, cauliflower mash, or roasted vegetables.
5. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the gravy up to 2 days in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
6. Why are my patties dry?
Overcooking or using too lean of a ground beef (like 90/10) can cause dryness. Stick to 80/20 for juicier results.
7. Can I use pre-made gravy?
You can, but homemade gravy offers better flavor. If using store-bought, enhance it with sautéed onions and a splash of Worcestershire.
8. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The savory flavors and tender texture are generally loved by kids, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes.

Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy is a timeless comfort dish that brings together juicy, seasoned ground beef patties and rich caramelized onion gravy. Perfectly pan-seared and slow-simmered, these steaks are hearty and deeply satisfying. Ideal for a cozy dinner, they pair exceptionally well with mashed potatoes or rice, soaking up every bit of the savory sauce.
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg
1/3 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Onion Gravy:
2 tbsp butter
1 large onion, sliced into rings
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape into 4–5 oval patties, flatten slightly in the center.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add onion rings and cook for 8–10 minutes until caramelized.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Return patties to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low for 10–15 minutes.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes or your choice of side, topped with gravy and parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish