By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on July 10, 2023 | Last Updated on November 4, 2023
Cracker Barrel hamburger steak is a classic comfort food that has been around for generations. It’s a simple dish made of ground beef patties cooked in an onion gravy, and it’s the perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to cook.
This easy-to-follow recipe will show you how to make this delicious dish in no time, so you can enjoy a comforting and flavorful dinner without all the fuss.
It’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family! So pull out your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
What is Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak?
Cracker Barrel hamburger steak is a popular home-cooked meal that has been around for generations, and it’s typically served over rice or mashed potatoes. The combination of savory beef, sweet onions, and flavorful gravy make this dish a winner every time.
This comforting meal originated in the South, and it’s become a staple of Southern cuisine. It’s often served at all-day Sunday dinners or potluck events, and it’s also popular as an entree at Cracker Barrel restaurants. The word “cracker barrel” actually comes from the barrels of crackers and other food items that were sold at country stores in the American South.
What does it taste like?
Cracker Barrel hamburger steak has a classic flavor that’s difficult to beat. The beef patties are juicy and savory, with just the right amount of seasoning. Combined with the sweet onion gravy, it creates a rich and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by even picky eaters!
The onions in the gravy add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while the beef broth lends a rich, umami-packed base. All these elements combine to create an unbeatable flavor that’s sure to become a family favorite in no time!
The gravy is also perfect for soaking up with your side dishes – just like homemade meatloaf!This dish can be made as mild or as spicy as you like, so feel free to adjust the seasonings to your tastes.
How did I first get introduced to the Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak?
I first got introduced to the Cracker Barrel hamburger steak while I was visiting my grandparents in rural North Carolina. We had gone out to dinner at Cracker Barrel restaurant, and it was there that I discovered this delicious dish.
The menu featured a hamburger steak smothered in onion gravy, served over mashed potatoes with a side of country-style green beans. I could tell from the description alone that this was something special, and I knew right away that I had to try it.
When our meals arrived, my eyes widened at the sight of what was before me – a perfectly seasoned hamburger steak, smothered in a thick onion gravy and served over creamy mashed potatoes. The aroma of the onion gravy and the juicy beef patties was enough to make my mouth water, and I knew that I had to give it a try.
I took my first bite of the hamburger steak and was instantly in love. The patty was moist and flavorful, while the onion gravy added an extra layer of savory goodness. The mashed potatoes completed the meal, providing a creamy and comforting accompaniment to the beef.
Since that day, I’ve made Cracker Barrel hamburger steak a regular part of my meals. It’s one of those dishes that never gets old – no matter how many times I make it, it always tastes just as good as the first time. If you’re looking for a classic comfort food that’s sure to please, look no further than the Cracker Barrel hamburger steak. You won’t be disappointed!
How to make Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak?
Making Cracker Barrel hamburger steak is easier than you might think. All it takes are a few simple steps and ingredients for a delicious dinner that will have your family asking for seconds!
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Ingredients
- Ground beef chuck: this is the main ingredient in this delicious dish. It is important that you use ground beef chuck so that it stays moist and juicy after cooking.
- Salt, pepper, onion salt, and garlic powder: these will add depth of flavor to your hamburger steaks. Be sure to season generously for the best results!
- White onion slices: these are used in the onion gravy that tops the hamburger steaks.
- Butter: if needed, you can add butter to the onion gravy to help it thicken and give it a beautiful sheen.
- All-purpose flour: this will be used to create a roux for the onion gravy, adding flavor and texture.
- Beef broth: this is added to thin out the onion gravy and give it a rich, beefy flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
In a bowl, combine the ground beef chuck, salt, pepper, onion salt, and garlic powder until evenly mixed. Form four equal-sized patties with your hands and set aside.
Step 2
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the white onion slices. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and beginning to caramelize. Add a teaspoon of butter, if needed, to help with the cooking process.
Step 3
When the onions are cooked through, add the tablespoon of flour and stir it in until combined. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to combine everything together. Bring this gravy to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low.
Step 4
Add the hamburger steaks to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F on an instant-read thermometer. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 5
To serve, place the hamburger steaks onto individual plates and spoon the onion gravy over top.
Tips
-Try adding a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce to the hamburger steak patties for an extra depth of flavor.
-If you don’t have beef broth on hand, try using chicken or vegetable broth instead.
-Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the onion gravy to your liking. You can add more salt and pepper if you like a little extra flavor.
-If the onion gravy is too thick, simply add more beef broth to thin it out.
Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
- wooden spoon
- knife
- Chopping board
Ingredients
Hamburger Steaks:
- 1/4 teaspoon of exquisite sea salt harvested from pristine waters to enhance the overall taste
- 1/8 teaspoon of onion salt delicately seasoned with a touch of savory onion flavor
- 1/8 teaspoon of aromatic garlic powder meticulously sourced for its robust flavor profile
- 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper adding a hint of boldness to the meat patties
- 3/4 pound of premium ground beef chuck carefully selected for its rich flavor and ideal fat content
Onion Gravy:
- 3/4 cup of homemade beef broth simmered to perfection for a deep and savory flavor base
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of finely sifted all-purpose flour contributing to the thickness and smoothness of the gravy
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of premium butter added only if needed to achieve a rich and velvety consistency
- 1/2 cup of crisp white onion slices thinly cut for a satisfying texture and sweet flavor
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the ground beef chuck, salt, pepper, onion salt, and garlic powder until evenly mixed. Form four equal-sized patties with your hands and set aside.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the white onion slices. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and beginning to caramelize. Add a teaspoon of butter, if needed, to help with the cooking process.
- When the onions are cooked through, add the tablespoon of flour and stir it in until combined. Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to combine everything together. Bring this gravy to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low.
- Add the hamburger steaks to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F on an instant-read thermometer. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- To serve, place the hamburger steaks onto individual plates and spoon the onion gravy over top.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Calories: 462kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 121mg | Sodium: 887mg | Potassium: 572mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 4mg
What to serve with Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak?
Cracker Barrel hamburger steak pairs nicely with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, macaroni and cheese, steamed broccoli, and green beans. It’s also great served over toast or biscuits for an easy dinner option!
For a heartier meal, try adding french fries or a simple potato salad to the mix. You can also top the hamburger steak with a fried egg for an extra special touch.
How to store leftover Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak?
Any leftover Cracker Barrel hamburger steak should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove top with a little oil until warmed through.
Alternatively, you can freeze the patties for up to 3 months. To reheat them, simply thaw them overnight and then cook in a skillet until warmed through.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can enjoy Cracker Barrel hamburger steak in moderation. The dish contains lean beef which is a great source of protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals that are important for a healthy pregnancy.
However, it is important to make sure the hamburger steaks are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are safe to eat. It is also advised to limit your intake of processed foods during pregnancy, so it’s best to enjoy this dish in moderation.
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Cracker Barrel hamburger steak gluten-free by using gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of the regular flour for the onion gravy. Be sure to double-check any other ingredients you’re using to make sure they are also certified gluten-free.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make Cracker Barrel hamburger steak dairy-free by omitting the butter in the onion gravy. You may need to add a splash of oil or extra broth to help thin out the gravy if it’s too thick.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey in place of ground beef for a lighter version. Just be sure to cook the hamburger steaks until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are cooked through.
Can I make this dish with teak?
No, teak is not suitable for making Cracker Barrel hamburger steaks. The texture and flavor are too different from ground beef. It is best to stick with ground chuck or sirloin for the best results.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for taking the time to read through this guide on how to make Cracker Barrel hamburger steaks!
This is a quick and easy meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
From start to finish, it can be ready in just 30 minutes or less. Just don’t forget to season generously for the most delicious results.
I hope that this guide has been helpful and you now feel confident in making your own Cracker Barrel hamburger steaks at home! Feel free to share this article with your friends and family.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
