1. Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape them into oval patties, about 3/4-inch thick.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside. They will not be fully cooked at this point.
2. Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions (and mushrooms if using) and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a gravy, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine and Finish Cooking:
- Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the hamburger steaks are fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F) and the gravy has further thickened.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning of the gravy if necessary.
4. Serve:
- Serve the smothered hamburger steaks hot, garnished with chopped fresh thyme or parsley. Ideal accompaniments include mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or your favorite green vegetable.
Conclusion:
Smothered Hamburger Steak is a classic dish that offers the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. It’s a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something deliciously satisfying. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for customization according to personal preferences. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table with its rich flavors and tender, juicy patties. Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful experience of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones.