Hamburger Steak (Easy One-Pan Meal)

Name: Hamburger Steak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1½ pounds lean ground beef; 1 teaspoon kosher fine salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms (sliced); 1 small sweet onion (thinly sliced); 2-3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 ½ cups broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons filtered water (for slurry); black pepper (to taste)

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You are going to love this recipe for homemade Hamburger Steak. Moist beef patties simmered in a delicious and savory mushroom gravy. This dish is packed with protein-rich and cozy flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Hamburger steaks in a white skillet with mushroom onion gravy

This classic dish is ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting that’s quick and simple. All made in one pan, the patties are seared first to develop a flavorful crust, then simmered in a brown onion-and-mushroom gravy to keep them super juicy. I like to serve them with a side of my Healthy Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Green Beans for a wholesome, satisfying meal that my whole family loves.

For easy weeknight meals, try my Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff or Chicken Scallopini.

Recipe Overview

Skill Level

Intermediate

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

30 mins

Ingredients Needed

Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make Hamburger Steak. The full quantities can be found in the recipe card further down the post.

Lean ground beef: I like to use a 90/10 ratio of lean beef to fat for these patties, as they stay moist but not greasy. Ground turkey also works.
Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the beefy flavor in the patties. If you don’t have any, try using soy sauce instead.
Onion powder and Garlic powder: These add savory depth of flavor to the patties with minimal effort.
Olive oil: I always just reach for olive oil, but any other oil works. Avocado oil can be used instead.
Cremini mushrooms: Small white mushrooms or mixed wild mushrooms can be used, if preferred.
Sweet onion: Has a sweet, mild flavor that adds depth to the gravy. Can be substituted with a small yellow onion or shallot.
Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic is used in the gravy because it has a richer flavor than garlic powder. Pre-chopped garlic can speed up prep.
Broth: Beef, chicken, or vegetable all work well.
Oyster sauce: Adds a savory, salty flavor to the gravy. For a seafood-free version, use Chinese mushroom sauce (sometimes called vegetarian oyster sauce) instead.
Soy sauce: Enhances the umami flavors in the gravy. Tamari, coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce also work.
Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the gravy. Can be replaced with arrowroot, if preferred.
Black pepper: For added flavor.

How to Make Hamburger Steak

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire. Divide into 4 oval patties and press a shallow indent in the center of each.

Step 2: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove and allow to rest.

process shot for prepping the ground beef to make patties and cooking them in a pan.

Step 3: Using the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add mushrooms in a single layer.

Step 4: Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to allow the mushrooms to brown, then stir and cook for 5 more minutes. Add sweet onion and cook until soft and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Meanwhile, make the slurry by mixing cornstarch + cold water until smooth.

process shot for making the mushroom gravy in a pan.

Step 6: Slowly pour it into the simmering gravy while stirring. Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until glossy and thickened. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

Step 7: Return the hamburger steaks to the pan and spoon gravy over top. Simmer gently 3 to 4 minutes to marry the flavors. Season with black pepper and serve.

Variations & Tips

Pushing a small indentation into each patty helps prevent them from doming as they cook.
The soy sauce and oyster sauce are my secret ingredients for making the most delicious gravy!
Try topping with grilled onions for a savory-sweet flavor.
Add a slice of Swiss cheese to the top of each burger near the end of cooking for a gooey finish.
Add a spoonful of Dijon or wholegrain mustard to the gravy for a flavor boost.
Use mixed wild mushrooms in the gravy for a different taste.

Four hamburger steaks in a white skillet with mushroom gravy.

Common Questions

How do I store it?

Allow the cooked hamburger steaks and the gravy to cool. Store in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days (or freeze for up to 3 months). If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I reheat it?

Pan-fry both sides of the hamburger steaks over medium-low heat in a skillet until piping hot throughout. Warm the gravy in a pot with a splash of water over a medium-low heat, or microwave it in a microwave-safe container, until piping hot.

What is the best meat to fat ratio?

I like to use 90% lean to 10% fat for a juicy yet light patty. If you prefer something more indulgent, 80/20 works great.

Why is my hamburger steak tough?

This can be due to overworking the ground beef mixture, so it’s best to mix just until combined to avoid toughening the meat. It may also happen if you’re using very lean ground beef, so make sure the meat mixture has 10-20% fat.

Can I Make it Gluten-free?

Yes! You’ll need to use gluten-free versions of Worcestershire sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce/tamari. Also, check that the broth you’re using is certified gluten-free.