Description

Craving a comforting, home-cooked meal that wraps you in savory warmth? Look no further than Slow Cooker Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy! This classic dish features tender, juicy ground beef patties seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and spices, smothered in a rich, caramelized onion gravy that’s pure comfort food magic. The slow cooker makes the patties and gravy effortless, melding flavors into a hearty, soul-soothing meal, while a quick stovetop step ensures the onions retain their golden depth.

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Steaks

Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 preferred): Provides a juicy, flavorful base.
- Substitution: Ground turkey, chicken, or a beef-pork mix (adjust fat for juiciness).
Breadcrumbs (⅓ cup): Binds the patties for structure.
- Substitution: Gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or almond flour for low-carb.
Large Egg (1): Helps bind the mixture and adds moisture.
- Substitution: Flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for egg-free.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Enhances umami savoriness.
- Substitution: Soy sauce, tamari, or balsamic vinegar for vegetarian.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Infuses savory warmth.
- Substitution: 1 fresh garlic clove, minced, or ¼ tsp garlic salt (reduce added salt).
Onion Powder (½ tsp): Adds subtle, sweet depth.
- Substitution: ¼ cup finely diced onion or ½ tsp dried minced onion.
Salt (½ tsp): Boosts patty flavor.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options.
Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds mild heat.
- Substitution: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

For the Onion Gravy

Yellow Onion (1 large, thinly sliced): Creates sweet, caramelized depth.
- Substitution: White onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder (added to gravy).
All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp): Thickens the gravy.
- Substitution: Gluten-free flour, cornstarch (1 tbsp), or arrowroot powder.
Beef Broth (2 cups): Forms the rich, savory gravy base.
- Substitution: Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water with bouillon.
Butter or Oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing and sautéing.
- Substitution: Olive oil, avocado oil, or vegan butter.

For Garnish (optional)

Fresh Parsley (chopped): Adds vibrant color and freshness.
- Substitution: Chives, green onions, or no garnish.

Why They’re Important: The 80/20 ground beef ensures juicy patties, while breadcrumbs and egg provide structure. Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and onion powder add savory depth, and the caramelized onions and beef broth create a rich, velvety gravy. Butter enhances flavor, and parsley elevates the dish with a fresh, polished finish.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks

In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, ⅓ cup breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined to keep the patties tender. Form into 4 oval-shaped patties, about ½ inch thick.
- Tip: Avoid overmixing to prevent dense patties. Shape patties slightly larger than desired, as they’ll shrink slightly. Ovals mimic classic hamburger steaks, but rounds work too.

Step 2: Sear the Patties

Heat 1 tbsp butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
- Tip: Sear in batches if needed to avoid crowding. The browning adds flavor but isn’t essential for slow cooking; skip if short on time, though it enhances taste.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp butter or oil and 1 large thinly sliced yellow onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until softened and golden brown.
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute to cook out the raw taste.
Gradually pour in 2 cups beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
- Tip: Slice onions thinly for even caramelization. Scrape up browned bits from the patties for extra flavor. If the gravy is too thick, add ¼ cup more broth; if too thin, simmer longer.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Steaks and Gravy

Place the seared patties in the slow cooker, overlapping slightly if necessary. Pour the onion-gravy mixture over the patties, ensuring they’re mostly covered.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the patties are tender and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for medium-well.
- Tip: Check doneness early to avoid overcooking. Stir the gravy gently halfway through if possible to ensure even coating. If the gravy thickens too much, add 1-2 tbsp broth or water.

Step 5: Serve

Carefully transfer the patties to a serving platter or plates, spooning the onion gravy over the top.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, letting the gravy soak into the sides for maximum comfort.
- Tip: Rest patties for 2-3 minutes before serving to retain juices. Warm plates for a cozy presentation, and serve extra gravy on the side for drizzling.