By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on December 10, 2023 | Last Updated on December 10, 2023
For many, the ultimate comfort food is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be prepared with ease. One such dish that has stood the test of time and continues to satisfy is hamburger steak with gravy.
The combination of savory and tangy flavors makes it a favorite for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.
Stay tuned for our step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect hamburger steak with gravy, including tips and tricks for achieving a tender and flavorful dish every time.
What is Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy?
Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy is a popular Southern dish that originated from the kitchen of Brenda Gantt, a well-known chef and cookbook author in Alabama.
It consists of tender hamburger steak patties smothered in a creamy and rich gravy, served over mashed potatoes or rice.
What sets this dish apart is the use of tangy buttermilk in the hamburger steak mixture and balsamic vinegar in the gravy, giving it a unique twist on traditional Salisbury steak. It’s a comfort food favorite that is loved for its simplicity and delicious flavors.
Why You’ll Love this Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy?
There are many reasons to love Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy. For one, it’s a timeless classic that appeals to both young and old taste buds. The combination of flavors is comforting and satisfying, making it the perfect meal for any day of the week.
Additionally, this dish is easy to prepare with simple ingredients that are readily available in most kitchens. It’s also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences, whether it’s adding more spices or trying different variations of the gravy.
Moreover, it’s a budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. So get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and easy-to-make Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy!
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Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: This is the base for our gravy.
- Lean ground beef: You can also use ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Garlic powder: This adds flavor to the hamburger steak and gravy.
- Whole buttermilk: This helps tenderize the meat and add a tangy flavor to the dish.
- Ground black pepper: For seasoning, adjust according to taste preference.
- Whole milk: This is used to make the gravy and adds creaminess to the dish.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity and depth of flavor to the gravy.
- Baking powder: This helps give the hamburger steak its texture.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, you can also use canola or peanut oil.
- Hot sauce: Optional, but adds a nice kick of heat to the dish.
- Italian seasoning: For a blend of herbs and spices in the hamburger steak.
- Kosher salt: For seasoning, adjust according to taste preference.
- Garnish: Optional, but adds extra flavor and color to the dish.
- Chopped green onion: Adds a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1
Making the Hamburger Steak
- In a large bowl, combine 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 12 ounces lean ground beef, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 cup whole buttermilk, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Mix until well combined, making sure not to overwork the mixture.
- Shape the mixture into 3 equal-sized oval-shaped patties, about 1 inch thick.
- In a separate shallow dish, combine 1 cup whole milk and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
- In another separate dish, mix together 3/8 teaspoon baking powder and enough all-purpose flour to coat the patties.
- Dip each patty into the milk mixture, then coat in the flour mixture.
- Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2
Frying the Hamburger Steak
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated patties to the pan and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from the pan and let the patties drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Sprinkle with 3/4 teaspoon hot sauce, if desired.
Step 3
Making the Gravy
- In the same skillet used for frying, remove all but 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir to combine with the remaining oil. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a gravy consistency.
- Season with 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning and 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste.
- Serve the hamburger steak patties smothered in gravy, garnished with ground black pepper and, chopped green onion, if desired.
Tips
- For a shortcut version, you can use pre-made hamburger patties instead of making them from scratch.
- To save time, you can prepare the gravy while the patties are frying.
- The type of oil used for frying is important. Vegetable or canola oil works best as they have a high smoke point.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- For a healthier option, you can bake the hamburger steaks in the oven at 375°F for 25 minutes instead of frying them.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary in your hamburger steak mixture for added flavor.
- If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or broth.
- To add more depth of flavor to the gravy, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the flour and milk mixture.
Nutrition Information
How to store Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy?
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, make sure to heat it slowly on low heat to prevent the gravy from breaking.
To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make sure to label and date the containers so you know when they were made. This dish is perfect for meal prepping or freezing ahead of time for busy nights. It can easily be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop whenever a craving strikes.
What other substitute can I use in Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy?
If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to switch things up, here are some substitutes you can try in this dish:
- You can use ground pork, chicken, or turkey instead of beef for the hamburger steak.
- Instead of buttermilk, you can use regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar added to it. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- For a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk.
- If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar will add a similar tangy flavor to the gravy.
- You can also add diced onions and bell peppers to the hamburger steak mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Instead of hot sauce, you can use cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- To make the dish gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak And Gravy Recipe
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- large skillet
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: A foundation for a perfectly balanced batter ensuring a crisp and golden texture when fried.
- 12 ounces lean ground beef: Adds hearty and savory notes creating a robust base for the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a rich and aromatic essence enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup whole buttermilk: Contributes a luscious and tangy element providing depth to the batter.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a subtle but distinct warmth complementing the savory notes of the beef.
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature: Incorporates a creamy and smooth texture, contributing to the dish’s indulgent quality.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Introduces a touch of acidity elevating the flavor with a hint of sweetness and depth.
- 3/8 teaspoon baking powder: Enhances the batter’s fluffiness ensuring a light and airy texture when fried.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Serves as the medium for achieving a crispy and golden exterior, sealing in the flavors.
- 3/4 teaspoon hot sauce: Infuses a subtle kick adding a layer of complexity and a hint of spiciness.
- Garnish: ground black pepper chopped green onion: A finishing touch that adds a burst of freshness and a peppery bite.
- 1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Introduces a medley of herbs contributing a savory and aromatic blend.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste: Ensures a well-seasoned dish, with the option to adjust according to personal preference.
Instructions
- Begin by combining 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 12 ounces of lean ground beef, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper in a large bowl. Add in 1 cup of whole buttermilk and mix until well combined without overworking the mixture. Shape the mixture into equal-sized oval patties, about 1 inch thick. In a separate shallow dish, combine 1 cup of whole milk with 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. In another dish, create a mixture with 3/8 teaspoon of baking powder and enough all-purpose flour to coat the patties. Dip each patty in the milk mixture before coating them in the flour mixture.
- Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated patties to the pan and fry until they turn a beautiful golden brown on both sides for around 3-4 minutes per side. After removing the patties from the pan, let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. For an optional touch of heat, sprinkle 3/4 teaspoon of hot sauce on each patty.
- Using the same skillet as before with only about 2 tablespoons of oil remaining in it, stir together 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for around one minute until combined well with the remaining oil. As you continue to stir, gradually add 2 cups of whole milk and cook until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Season with 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, adjusting to your preferred taste. For serving, top each hamburger steak patty with the prepared gravy and garnish with ground black pepper and chopped green onion for an added pop of flavor.
Notes
- For a shortcut version, you can use pre-made hamburger patties instead of making them from scratch.
- To save time, you can prepare the gravy while the patties are frying.
- The type of oil used for frying is important. Vegetable or canola oil works best as they have a high smoke point.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- For a healthier option, you can bake the hamburger steaks in the oven at 375°F for 25 minutes instead of frying them.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme or rosemary in your hamburger steak mixture for added flavor.
- If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or broth.
- To add more depth of flavor to the gravy, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the flour and milk mixture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen hamburger patties for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen hamburger patties instead of making them from scratch. Just make sure to thaw them completely before frying.
Can I use chicken or vegetable broth instead of milk in the gravy?
Yes, you can use any type of broth or stock as a substitute for milk in the gravy. Keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.
What can I serve with Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe in the crockpot or slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking the hamburger steaks and gravy separately, then combining them in the slow cooker to cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Conclusion
Brenda Gantt Hamburger Steak and Gravy is a classic Southern comfort dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With the perfect balance of juicy burger patties, savory gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Thank you for reading this article. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish as much as we do. Make sure to share this article with your friends and family so they can enjoy it too!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
