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A delicious Salisbury steak topped with brown onion gravy, served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Classic Hamburger Steaks with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Rich Brown Gravy

A comforting, hearty meal featuring savory pan-fried beef patties smothered in a rich brown gravy, served alongside smooth, buttery mashed potatoes. This classic American comfort food is perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 780

Ingredients
  

For the Hamburger Steaks
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef 80/20 fat ratio recommended
  • 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or other high-heat cooking oil
For the Mashed Potatoes
  • 2 lbs Russet potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup milk whole milk or half-and-half, warmed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter cut into pieces, room temperature
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
For the Brown Gravy
  • 2 tbsp reserved pan drippings from cooking the steaks, or unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth low sodium recommended
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • 1/2 cup sliced yellow onion optional, for added flavor in gravy

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Potato Masher
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form each into a flat, oval or round patty, about 3/4-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging during cooking.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the hamburger steaks in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until deeply browned and cooked through to your desired doneness (internal temperature 160°F for medium-well).
  4. Remove the cooked hamburger steaks from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep them warm. Leave any accumulated pan drippings in the skillet.
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
  1. While the steaks are cooking, place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
  2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander.
  3. Return the drained potatoes to the empty hot pot. Add the warmed milk, butter pieces, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Using a potato masher or an electric mixer on low speed, mash until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover to keep warm.
Prepare the Brown Gravy
  1. If using, add the sliced yellow onion to the skillet with the reserved pan drippings (or 2 tbsp fresh butter if drippings are scarce). Sauté over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions (if using) and drippings in the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This helps cook out the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the remaining 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for 3-5 minutes or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
  4. Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash more beef broth; if too thin, simmer a bit longer or create a small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) and whisk it in.
Assemble and Serve
  1. Place a portion of creamy mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with one or two hamburger steaks and generously spoon the rich brown gravy over the steaks and potatoes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For an even richer gravy, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the flour. If you prefer a thinner gravy, simply add more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.