Hamburger Gravy

A quick and easy creamy Hamburger Gravy is perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This hearty dish shines when served over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, pasta, rice, or fluffy buttermilk biscuits. The rich flavors meld beautifully, making it a comforting choice that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for the family or entertaining guests, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this gravy over various bases like mashed potatoes or rice, catering to everyone’s preferences.
• Freezes Well: Double the recipe and freeze half, ensuring you have a quick meal ready for those busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and cream delivers a creamy texture and savory taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet is all you need, making cooking and cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable. Below are some essential kitchen tools you’ll need to prepare Hamburger Gravy.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for browning meat and combining ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups/spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

A quick and easy creamy Hamburger Gravy that is delicious over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, pasta, rice, and buttermilk biscuits. Double the recipe and freeze half for a meal next month.

For the Gravy

• 1½ lbs. ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or half and half
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 pinches nutmeg
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped fresh Italian parsley for garnish

How to Make Hamburger Gravy

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
1. Once it’s halfway through browning, add the chopped onions.
2. Continue cooking until the beef is fully cooked and browned while the onions soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Reduce heat to medium-low.
1. Add minced garlic to the skillet.
2. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring continuously until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Melt butter in the skillet with the browned beef mixture.
1. Sprinkle in flour while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes.
2. Slowly pour in beef broth and heavy cream; stir until smooth.

Step 4: Season and Garnish

Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried parsley, and nutmeg to the mixture.
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
2. Season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste.
3. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Hamburger Gravy!

How to Serve Hamburger Gravy

Hamburger gravy is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it perfect for a variety of serving options. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. The creamy gravy enhances the fluffy texture, creating a hearty meal.

On Egg Noodles

• Serve the hamburger gravy over egg noodles for a quick and satisfying dinner. The noodles soak up the gravy beautifully.

With Rice

• Pairing hamburger gravy with rice is an easy way to make a filling meal. White or brown rice works well to absorb the flavors.

Inside Buttermilk Biscuits

• For a delightful twist, pour hamburger gravy over warm buttermilk biscuits. It transforms breakfast into a savory treat.

With Pasta

• Use your favorite pasta as a base for the gravy. The combination offers both comfort and flavor in every bite.

As a Filling for Stuffed Peppers

• Mix hamburger gravy with cooked rice and fill bell peppers for a delicious and unique dish that’s full of flavor.

How to Perfect Hamburger Gravy

Creating the perfect hamburger gravy takes just a few careful steps. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic add more depth of flavor than dried options, making your gravy taste homemade.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to ensure it’s seasoned perfectly.
• Control the thickness: If your gravy is too thick, add more beef broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
• Stir continuously: While adding flour, stirring constantly prevents lumps from forming, ensuring a smooth sauce.
• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to try other herbs like rosemary or oregano for added flavor complexity in your gravy.
• Garnish wisely: Fresh thyme leaves or parsley not only enhance visual appeal but also add freshness to each serving.

Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Gravy

Pairing sides with hamburger gravy can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions that complement its rich flavors wonderfully.

1. Steamed Green Beans: A simple yet nutritious choice, steamed green beans offer crunch and color alongside the creamy gravy.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly charred flavor contrasts nicely with the richness of the gravy, adding texture.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: A cool coleslaw provides a refreshing balance to the warm, hearty dish, enhancing overall enjoyment.
4. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy, garlic bread adds an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with any main course.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a delightful side that brings brightness to your plate while complementing savory flavors.
6. Cauliflower Mash: For a lower-carb option, cauliflower mash serves as a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes while still being creamy and flavorful.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory notes of hamburger gravy, making them an excellent pairing choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hamburger Gravy can be simple, but certain mistakes can hinder the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using low-quality beef – Always choose fresh, high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor. Leaner cuts produce less grease, which is essential for a good gravy base.
• Skipping the browning step – Properly browning the beef enhances its flavor. Take your time to develop that nice brown color before adding other ingredients.
• Not measuring flour accurately – Using too much or too little flour can alter the thickness of your gravy. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Taste your gravy during cooking. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Overcooking the gravy – Cooking it too long after adding the cream can cause separation. Keep it on low heat and stir gently to maintain its creamy texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Hamburger Gravy

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It will last for up to 2–3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hamburger Gravy

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for 20-30 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamburger Gravy?

Hamburger Gravy is a creamy sauce made with ground beef, onions, and seasonings, typically served over mashed potatoes or pasta.

How do you make Hamburger Gravy?

To make Hamburger Gravy, brown ground beef with onions and garlic, stir in flour, then add broth and cream to create a smooth sauce.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily use ground chicken for a lighter version of Hamburger Gravy while maintaining great flavor.

How do you thicken Hamburger Gravy?

If you want a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with water to reach your desired consistency.

What can I serve with Hamburger Gravy?

Hamburger Gravy pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or biscuits—making it versatile for any meal.

Conclusion

This creamy Hamburger Gravy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and offers both comfort and deliciousness. It’s easily customizable; add vegetables or spices based on your preference. Try this recipe tonight!

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