Name: Hamburger Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; ½ small onion; 2 cloves garlic; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 3 tbsp flour; 1 cup milk; 1 cup beef broth; 1 bouillon cube

This savory and comforting hamburger gravy is perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you pour it over biscuits or mashed potatoes, it brings heartiness and flavor to your meal. The blend of ground beef, onions, and garlic combined with a rich, creamy sauce makes this a beloved dish.

Photos of Hamburger Gravy Recipe

Some ingredients like worcestershire sauce and bouillon cube might not be staples in every pantry. Worcestershire sauce adds a complex, savory depth, while a bouillon cube intensifies the beef flavor. Keep an eye out for these items when visiting the supermarket.

Ingredients Needed for Hamburger Gravy

lean ground beef: This is the base protein for the gravy, offering a hearty and flavorful foundation.

small onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.

garlic: Provides a rich, aromatic flavor.

worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami and depth of the gravy.

flour: Thickens the gravy to a pleasing consistency.

milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.

beef broth: Intensifies the beefy flavor of the gravy.

bouillon cube: Concentrated beef flavor to enrich the gravy.

One reader, Edouard Lima says:

This hamburger gravy recipe is fantastic! The flavors blend perfectly, and it's so easy to make. My family loved it over mashed potatoes. Definitely adding this to our regular meal rotation.

Edouard Lima

Key Techniques for Making Hamburger Gravy Recipe

How to brown ground beef: Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is no longer pink. How to chop an onion: Cut the onion in half, peel off the skin, and dice it into small pieces. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely chop them with a knife. How to make a roux: Stir flour into the fat in the skillet and cook for a couple of minutes to form a paste, which will thicken the gravy. How to thicken gravy: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired thickness.

How To Make Hamburger Gravy

Your burgers will never be complete without this hearty hamburger gravy! This 30-minute recipe is the best sauce for burgers and other savory meals.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lblean ground beef
½small onion,diced
2clovesgarlic,minced
1tbspWorcestershire sauce
3tbspflour
1cupmilk
1cupbeef broth
1bouillon cube

Instructions

Brown the ground beef, onion and garlic until no pink remains. Do not drain.
You should have some fat in the bottom of the skillet. If not, add 1 tablespoon butter or oil.
Stir in Worcestershire.
Add the flour, stir, then allow to cook 2 minutes.
Add the milk, beef broth, and bouillon cube, then stir.
Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve over biscuits or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 240.00kcal
Fat: 16.52g
Saturated Fat: 6.51g
Trans Fat: 0.89g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.49g
Carbohydrates: 6.30g
Fiber: 0.13g
Sugar: 2.57g
Protein: 15.53g
Cholesterol: 57.74mg
Sodium: 177.70mg
Calcium: 68.24mg
Potassium: 363.10mg
Iron: 1.80mg
Vitamin A: 21.87µg
Vitamin C: 0.68mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Hamburger Gravy

To achieve a richer flavor in your hamburger gravy, consider browning the ground beef more deeply. Allow it to develop a dark, caramelized crust before adding the onion and garlic. This Maillard reaction will enhance the overall depth and complexity of the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Hamburger Gravy

Pre-chop ingredients: Dice the onion and mince the garlic ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made broth: Opt for store-bought beef broth to save time on preparation.

One-pan method: Cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic in the same skillet to reduce cleanup.

Measure ingredients beforehand: Have your flour, milk, and worcestershire sauce ready to go before you start cooking.

Quick thickening: Use a whisk to quickly incorporate the flour into the mixture, ensuring a smooth gravy.

Instant bouillon: Dissolve the bouillon cube in hot water before adding it to the skillet for faster integration.

Substitute Ingredients For Hamburger Gravy Recipe

lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean protein that can easily replace ground beef, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is another lean option that can mimic the texture of ground beef while providing a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
½ small onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter taste compared to onions, making them a good substitute that won't overpower the dish.
½ small onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a subtle onion-like flavor and can add a unique twist to the gravy.
2 cloves garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder can provide a similar flavor. Use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
2 cloves garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can add a mild garlic flavor along with a hint of sweetness.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor, though it will be slightly different in taste.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar offers a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that can mimic the complexity of Worcestershire sauce.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in place of flour. Use half the amount of cornstarch as you would flour.
flour - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is another thickening agent that can replace flour, offering a similar consistency.
milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream can provide a richer, creamier texture to the gravy.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it will have a slightly different flavor.
beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used in place of beef broth, though it will result in a lighter flavor.
beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good vegetarian option that can still provide a savory base for the gravy.
bouillon cube - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste can add a deep umami flavor similar to a bouillon cube, though it will have a slightly different taste.
bouillon cube - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty, umami flavor that can mimic the effect of a bouillon cube.

Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Gravy

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the hamburger gravy in a refined, elegant manner by using a small ring mold to shape the mashed potatoes or biscuits as a base. This ensures a sophisticated and controlled portion size.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A delicate sprinkle of paprika can also enhance the visual appeal.
Layering technique: Create layers by placing a small amount of mashed potatoes or a biscuit at the bottom, followed by a generous spoonful of hamburger gravy. Repeat this layering to build height and visual interest.
Elegant plating: Use a large, white plate to contrast with the rich colors of the hamburger gravy. This helps to highlight the dish and make it the focal point.
Texture contrast: Add a crispy element, such as a thin potato chip or a parmesan crisp, to provide a delightful contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle a small amount of the hamburger gravy around the plate in an artistic pattern, rather than just pouring it over the mashed potatoes or biscuits. This adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Seasoning balance: Ensure the hamburger gravy is perfectly seasoned with salt and pepper to taste. A well-balanced seasoning will enhance the flavors and impress even the most discerning palates.
Final touch: Finish with a light dusting of freshly ground black pepper and a few drops of truffle oil for an extra layer of luxury and depth of flavor.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Hamburger Gravy

Skillet: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for browning the ground beef, onion, and garlic evenly.
Wooden spoon: Use a wooden spoon to stir the ingredients and ensure they cook uniformly.
Measuring spoons: Accurate measuring spoons are essential for adding the right amount of Worcestershire sauce and flour.
Measuring cups: Use measuring cups to measure out the milk and beef broth precisely.
Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for finely chopping the onion and garlic.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
Whisk: A whisk helps to blend the flour into the mixture smoothly, preventing lumps.
Spatula: A spatula can be useful for scraping down the sides of the skillet and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
Ladle: Use a ladle to serve the gravy over biscuits or mashed potatoes.
Salt and pepper shakers: Salt and pepper shakers allow you to season the gravy to taste.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hamburger Gravy

Allow the hamburger gravy to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled gravy to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the gravy:
- Portion the cooled gravy into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for easier storage and quicker thawing.
- Frozen hamburger gravy can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat the gravy:
- If frozen, thaw the gravy overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed or refrigerated gravy to a saucepan.
- Heat the gravy over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature and consistency. Add a little beef broth or water if needed to thin the gravy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
When reheating, be sure to heat the gravy thoroughly to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.

How To Reheat Leftover Hamburger Gravy

The best way to reheat leftover hamburger gravy is to use a saucepan on the stovetop. Place the gravy in the pan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the gravy is heated evenly without burning or separating.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the hamburger gravy in the microwave. Transfer the gravy to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat the gravy in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the gravy, as it can cause the ground beef to become tough and the gravy to separate.
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or beef broth to the gravy while reheating. This will help to loosen up the gravy and make it more smooth and silky. Just be sure to stir the liquid in gradually to avoid making the gravy too thin.
If you find that the leftover hamburger gravy has thickened up too much in the fridge, you can thin it out by whisking in a little beef broth or water until it reaches the desired consistency. This will help to make the gravy more pourable and easier to serve over biscuits or mashed potatoes.
To add some extra flavor to your leftover hamburger gravy, try stirring in some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme just before serving. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to give the gravy a little kick.

Interesting Trivia About Hamburger Gravy

A random fact about this hamburger gravy recipe is that it combines the savory flavors of ground beef, onion, and garlic with a creamy gravy made from milk and beef broth. This dish is a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for serving over biscuits or mashed potatoes.

Budget-Friendly Hamburger Gravy Recipe

This hamburger gravy recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using lean ground beef, onion, and garlic as the primary ingredients, it leverages pantry staples like flour, milk, and beef broth. The addition of a bouillon cube and worcestershire sauce enhances flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Hamburger Gravy Healthy or Unhealthy?

The hamburger gravy recipe, while comforting and flavorful, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

High saturated fat content from the ground beef and potential added butter or oil
Sodium levels from the bouillon cube, beef broth, and added salt
Refined carbohydrates if served over traditional biscuits or mashed potatoes
Limited vegetable content, which reduces the overall nutritional value

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be transformed into a healthier option without sacrificing taste:

Opt for extra-lean ground beef, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative to reduce saturated fat
Use low-sodium beef broth and omit the bouillon cube to control sodium intake
Incorporate more vegetables, such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms, to boost fiber and nutrient content
Thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry instead of flour for a gluten-free option
Serve over whole-grain biscuits, cauliflower mash, or a bed of quinoa for a nutrient-dense base
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, to enhance flavor without relying on salt

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nourishing meal that still satisfies your craving for a hearty, comforting dish.

Editor's Opinion on This Hamburger Gravy Recipe

This hamburger gravy recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for a hearty meal. The combination of ground beef, onion, and garlic creates a flavorful base, while the Worcestershire sauce adds a subtle depth. The use of both milk and beef broth ensures a rich, creamy texture. Cooking the flour for a couple of minutes before adding the liquids helps eliminate any raw flour taste. Serving it over biscuits or mashed potatoes makes for a satisfying dish. Overall, it's a simple yet delicious recipe that delivers on both flavor and comfort.

Enhance Your Hamburger Gravy Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts paired with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the rich, savory notes of your hamburger gravy.

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with aromatic garlic and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese create a side dish that's both simple and sophisticated. The crisp-tender texture and cheesy goodness make it an ideal partner for your hearty main course.

Apple Cranberry Salad: Apple Cranberry Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts tossed in a light vinaigrette. This salad brings a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness that balances the richness of the hamburger gravy.

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread: Imagine a warm, golden cornbread studded with sharp cheddar cheese and spicy jalapeños. This side dish adds a touch of heat and a cheesy, crumbly texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy, savory gravy.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A velvety tomato soup infused with fragrant basil and a hint of cream. This comforting bowl of goodness provides a warm, soothing contrast to the robust flavors of your hamburger gravy.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Hamburger Gravy

Salisbury Steak With Mushroom Gravy: Dive into a classic comfort dish with Salisbury steak smothered in a rich mushroom gravy. Perfectly seasoned ground beef patties are seared to perfection and then simmered in a savory sauce made with fresh mushrooms, beef broth, and a touch of cream. Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty meal.

Swedish Meatballs: Experience the delightful flavors of Swedish meatballs, a dish that combines tender meatballs with a creamy, slightly tangy gravy. These meatballs are seasoned with a blend of spices and breadcrumbs, then cooked in a luscious sauce made from beef broth, cream, and a hint of nutmeg. Pair with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes for an authentic touch.

Beef Stroganoff: Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of beef stroganoff. Strips of tender beef are sautéed with onions and mushrooms, then simmered in a sauce made from beef broth, sour cream, and a splash of white wine. Serve over egg noodles or rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Shepherd's Pie: Savor the hearty flavors of shepherd's pie, a classic dish featuring a savory ground beef filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. The filling is made with ground beef, onions, carrots, and peas, all simmered in a rich gravy. The mashed potatoes are spread on top and baked until golden and bubbly. A perfect one-dish meal for any night of the week.

Beef And Vegetable Stew: Warm up with a bowl of beef and vegetable stew, a hearty and nutritious dish that's perfect for chilly days. Chunks of tender beef are slow-cooked with an array of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery in a flavorful broth. The stew is seasoned with herbs and spices, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that's best enjoyed with crusty bread.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Hamburger Gravy Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, spinach, and parmesan. Add a hint of garlic and breadcrumbs for texture. Bake until golden brown and serve warm for a crowd-pleasing start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Begin with slices of toasted baguette, then top with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil for a refreshing and flavorful bite that pairs perfectly with any main course.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten center of rich chocolate flowing out as you cut into this decadent treat. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis for a stunning contrast of flavors and temperatures. The gooey interior and crispy exterior make it an irresistible end to any meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a tangy lemon curd nestled in a buttery crust, topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. The zesty lemon filling balances perfectly with the sweet, airy meringue, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Serve it chilled for a refreshing finish to your dinner.

Why trust this Hamburger Gravy Recipe:

This hamburger gravy recipe is a tried-and-true classic that brings comfort to any meal. Using simple ingredients like lean ground beef, onion, and garlic, it delivers rich, savory flavors. The addition of worcestershire sauce and a bouillon cube enhances the depth of taste, while the milk and beef broth create a creamy, luscious texture. Perfect over biscuits or mashed potatoes, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and comforting appeal.

Share your thoughts on the Hamburger Gravy Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this classic dish even better!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you might need to add a bit more oil or butter to get the right consistency.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

If your gravy isn't thick enough, you can mix a little more flour with some cold water to make a slurry, then slowly stir it into the gravy while it's simmering. Keep stirring until it thickens up to your liking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Just substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a bit of cold water before adding it to the gravy to avoid lumps.

How long does the gravy last in the fridge?

The gravy should last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or broth to get it back to the right consistency.

Can I freeze the hamburger gravy?

Yes, you can freeze it! Let the gravy cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.