Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
Every time I think of comfort food, I can’t help but reminisce about the delicious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy that takes me back to cozy family dinners. Imagine that warm, inviting feeling as you walk into a home filled with the aroma of seared beef and caramelized onions. I remember those special nights when my family gathered around the table, laughter mingling with the rich scents wafting from the kitchen. This recipe brings that memory back, allowing you to recreate a beloved dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The lovely combination of beef and onion gravy creates a delightful experience that warms your heart and fills your belly. Just like the restaurant’s version, this dish is all about bringing people together, and there’s nothing quite like sharing a comforting meal with loved ones. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to impress and satisfy. You won’t believe how easy it is to make!
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
15 mins
20 mins
Medium
450 kcal
32 g
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free
30 g
Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Skillet
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
It’s a Comfort Classic
The Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy is a timeless dish that stands out for its rich flavors and comforting textures. There’s something about the combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef and a rich, savory onion gravy that just feels like home. I love that it’s not just a meal, but an experience—a chance to recreate those cherished family moments.
Easy to Prepare
This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll find that preparing this dish is a breeze. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile and Adaptable
The Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy can easily be adapted to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a thicker gravy or more onions, this dish allows for creative adjustments. You can even serve it over mashed potatoes for an extra comforting twist!
Perfect for Any Occasion
This meal is fantastic for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even a cozy date night at home. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort you put into making something that tastes so delicious, and it’s sure to earn you rave reviews!
Hearty and Satisfying
There’s nothing quite like digging into a plate of Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy. The combination of savory beef and luscious gravy is not only filling but also incredibly satisfying. It’s the type of meal that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy Shopping List
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy. Each component plays a significant role in building layers of flavor that make this dish truly special. From the juicy ground beef to the sweet, caramelized onions, you’ll see how these ingredients come together to create something wonderful.
- 1½ pounds of ground beef chuck – This is the star of the dish. Look for a good quality beef chuck to get that rich flavor and juicy texture.
- ½ teaspoon of salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper – Adds a slight kick and depth.
- ¼ teaspoon of onion salt – Brings extra flavor to the beef mixture.
- ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder – For that hint of garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup of white onion slices – These will create a sweet and savory base for the gravy.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of butter (if needed) – To help sauté the onions perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour – This will thicken the gravy beautifully.
- 1½ cups of beef broth – For a rich and robust gravy.
Cooking Method for Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
Cooking the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy is a delightful process that fills your home with incredible aromas. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you toward creating a delicious meal. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, ground black pepper, onion salt, and garlic powder. Mix everything together with your hands or a spatula until well combined. Make sure not to overmix, as you want the meat to stay tender.
- Form the mixture into 4 equally sized patties that are about one inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
- Next, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot before adding the patties. This will help achieve a nice sear.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the hamburger steaks in the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you want them to sear properly rather than steam.
- Cook the patties for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side until they are browned. You should see a nice crust forming on the bottom.
- Flip the patties and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side. They should be seared and have a nice brown color. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to brown. This will release their natural sugars and intensify their flavor.
- Remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside. If there’s not enough grease left in the skillet, add a teaspoon or two of butter to help with the next step.
- Add the flour to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to ensure the flour is cooking evenly and absorbing the flavors left in the pan.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth while stirring, making sure the gravy is smooth and free of lumps. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and reduce the heat to low.
- Allow the gravy to cook for another 2 minutes. At this point, you can either return the onions to the gravy or keep them separate for serving.
- To serve, place the hamburger steaks on a plate and generously top them with the rich onion gravy. Enjoy every bite of this homey dish!
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking the patties on medium-high heat ensures they develop a nice crust while remaining juicy inside.
- Using a cast-iron skillet enhances the flavor, allowing those delicious bits stuck to the pan to infuse the gravy.
- Always let the meat rest after cooking; this keeps the juices locked in.
- For an extra touch, consider adding fresh herbs to the gravy, like thyme or parsley, for added flavor.
Recipe Tips about Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
Cooking is an art, and having some handy tips can make your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy experience even better. Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully!
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain flavor and moisture.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked hamburger steaks and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious gravy.
- Customization: Feel free to play with the spices in the meat mixture. Adding smoked paprika or cayenne can create exciting flavor variations.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve the steaks with a fresh garden salad or sautéed green beans for a complete meal.
What to Serve Alongside Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
When it comes to serving your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy, there are plenty of delightful options to complement this hearty dish. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with the rich gravy.
- Rice: A fluffy rice dish will absorb the gravy beautifully, making it a comforting addition.
- Green Beans: Freshly sautéed green beans add a crispy contrast and a pop of color to your plate.
- Salad: Serve a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meal.
- Biscuits: Flaky biscuits are excellent for soaking up the gravy and add a delightful texture.
- Occasion: This recipe is ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy is truly a standout recipe that brings a taste of nostalgia and warmth to any dinner table. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, as it promises to deliver a satisfying meal that you and your loved ones will cherish. Embrace the joy of home-cooked comfort food and enjoy every delicious bite!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, ground black pepper, onion salt, and garlic powder. Mix everything together with your hands or a spatula until well combined. Make sure not to overmix, as you want the meat to stay tender.
- Form the mixture into 4 equally sized patties that are about one inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
- Next, heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to get hot before adding the patties. This will help achieve a nice sear.
- Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the hamburger steaks in the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you want them to sear properly rather than steam.
- Cook the patties for about 3 to 4 minutes on one side until they are browned. You should see a nice crust forming on the bottom.
- Flip the patties and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side. They should be seared and have a nice brown color. Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to brown. This will release their natural sugars and intensify their flavor.
- Remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside. If there’s not enough grease left in the skillet, add a teaspoon or two of butter to help with the next step.
- Add the flour to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to ensure the flour is cooking evenly and absorbing the flavors left in the pan.
- Slowly whisk in the beef broth while stirring, making sure the gravy is smooth and free of lumps. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and reduce the heat to low.
- Allow the gravy to cook for another 2 minutes. At this point, you can either return the onions to the gravy or keep them separate for serving.
- To serve, place the hamburger steaks on a plate and generously top them with the rich onion gravy. Enjoy every bite of this homey dish!
