SMOTHERED HAMBURGER STEAK

## Step-by-Step Instructions for Smothered Hamburger Steak

### Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
In a large bowl, combine the **ground beef**, **chopped onion**, **minced garlic**, **Worcestershire sauce**, **mustard**, **salt**, **black pepper**, **onion powder**, and **garlic powder**. Use your hands to mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick.

### Step 2: Cook the Hamburger Steaks
Heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the hamburger patties to the skillet and cook for about **4-5 minutes per side**, or until the patties are browned on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature of the patties should reach **160°F** for medium well. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

### Step 3: Make the Onion Gravy
In the same skillet, melt the **butter** over medium heat, scraping up any brown bits left from the hamburger patties. Add the **sliced onions** and sauté for about **8-10 minutes**, or until the onions are soft and golden brown. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another **1-2 minutes**, until fragrant.

Sprinkle the **flour** over the onions and stir well to coat. Cook for about **1-2 minutes** to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the **beef broth**, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the **Worcestershire sauce**, **salt**, and **black pepper**. Let the gravy simmer for **5-7 minutes**, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.

### Step 4: Smother the Hamburger Steaks
Once the gravy has thickened, return the **hamburger steaks** to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Spoon some of the gravy over the top of each patty. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the patties simmer in the gravy for an additional **5-10 minutes**, allowing them to soak up the flavors and become even more tender.

### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the hamburger steaks are tender and fully coated in the delicious onion gravy, it’s time to serve! Plate the hamburger steaks and spoon the gravy over the top. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy!

## Tips for the Perfect Smothered Hamburger Steak

1. **Don’t Overmix the Meat**: When mixing the ground beef, be careful not to overwork it. Overmixing can result in tough patties. Gently mix until everything is just combined.

2. **Customize Your Gravy**: Feel free to add extra ingredients to the gravy for more flavor. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a splash of red wine can be added to the gravy for a more complex taste.

3. **Control the Thickness of the Gravy**: If you like your gravy thicker, cook it a little longer. If you prefer it thinner, add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

4. **Cook the Patties Well**: Make sure the hamburger patties are cooked through but not overdone. Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of **160°F** for safety.

5. **Let the Patties Simmer**: Letting the hamburger steaks simmer in the gravy allows them to absorb the flavors and become more tender. It’s well worth the wait!

## Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to Smothered Hamburger Steak

### 1. **Hearty Comfort Food**
There’s nothing quite like the warm, hearty feeling you get when you dig into a plate of **Smothered Hamburger Steak**. The juicy patties, the savory gravy, and the satisfying sides create a meal that is truly comforting.

### 2. **Perfect for Family Dinners**
This dish is perfect for a family meal, as it’s both filling and crowd-pleasing. The simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

### 3. **Versatile and Customizable**
You can customize the gravy to your liking, adding extra ingredients or adjusting the seasoning. Plus, you can serve it with a variety of sides, making it an incredibly versatile meal that can be adapted to suit your preferences.

### 4. **Simple Yet Flavorful**
With minimal ingredients and effort, **Smothered Hamburger Steak** delivers a bold, rich flavor that will leave you coming back for more. It’s a perfect example of how simple dishes can still pack a punch when made with care.

## Final Thoughts: A Classic Done Right

**Smothered Hamburger Steak** is a timeless comfort food that brings together the best of both worlds—hearty beef patties and a rich, savory gravy. It’s a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering. With its delicious combination of flavors and textures, this classic meal is sure to become a favorite in your home.

So, grab your skillet, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!