If you love hearty, homestyle meals that taste like they came straight from Grandma’s kitchen, this Southern-Style Hamburger Steak is a must-try. Juicy beef patties seasoned to perfection, pan-fried until golden, then smothered in a rich onion gravy—this dish is simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners, Sunday meals, or anytime you crave true Southern flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness)
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for frying)
For the Onion Gravy (Optional but Traditional):
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into oval or round patties, about 1/2-inch thick.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add hamburger steaks and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove patties from skillet and set aside.
Gravy Method (Southern Style)
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until soft and caramelized.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir well, cooking for 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Return hamburger steaks to the skillet, spoon gravy over them, and simmer for 5 minutes.
A Little History
Hamburger steak became popular in the American South as an affordable, filling meal using simple pantry ingredients. Over time, it evolved into a comfort-food classic, often served with gravy, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Benefits
- Budget-friendly and filling
- High in protein
- Easy to customize with spices or herbs
- Perfect for meal prep
Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, collard greens, or buttery biscuits for a true Southern plate.
Final Note
This Southern-Style Hamburger Steak is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Comforting, nostalgic, and always satisfying—this recipe never disappoints.