Hamburger Gravy

Hamburger gravy is a quick, hearty dish packed with savory flavors that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for the ultimate comfort food everyone will love!

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Hamburger gravy is the ultimate comfort food! This creamy, savory dish pairs perfectly with fluffy mashed potatoes or warm biscuits. Ready in minutes, it’s a hearty and flavorful meal your whole family will love. Whip up this classic dinner tonight and savor every bite.

This recipe is simple to make with the step-by-step guide below. Follow the photos and directions for easy success. Don’t miss our pro tips, tricks, and answers to the most frequently asked questions for perfect results every time!

Ground beef gravy is a quick and hearty dinner idea that’s ready in just twenty minutes. The rich, creamy gravy with flavorful ground beef makes this dish a family favorite for busy weeknights.

Serve it over mashed potatoes or biscuits for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for dinner, potlucks, or cozy gatherings, this classic recipe never disappoints!

What you'll need to make this Ground Beef and Gravy recipe:

•  1 pound of lean ground beef (I used an 85/15% blend)
• ¾ cup of yellow onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• ¼ cup of all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups of low-sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons of Better than Bouillon sautéed onion flavor
• 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup of 2% milk
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Why not try these easy substitutions and additions that can easily be swapped out while still maintaining the deliciousness of this ground beef gravy recipe!

• Substitute Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a variety of options that still pack plenty of flavor in your hamburger gravy.
• Substitute Milk: Replace milk with heavy cream for an extra-rich and creamy gravy texture.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or diced onions for added flavor and texture to your dish.
• Substitute Broth: Swap beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth to create a different twist on the classic gravy base.
• Add Seasonings: Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of smoked paprika for bold and delicious flavors.

These swaps and additions let you create a dish everyone will love!

Follow our easy, step-by-step instructions below. We'll walk you through making this hearty comfort food dish.

FIRST STEP: In a large skillet on medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef, finely chopped yellow onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until the ground beef is browned and no pink remains. 

SECOND STEP: Transfer the beef mixture to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. 

THIRD STEP: Turn the heat of the skillet down to medium heat and melt butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth.

FOURTH STEP: Slowly pour the beef broth into the skillet while whisking to remove any lumps. 

FIFTH STEP: Add the Better than Bouillon and Worcestershire sauce to the gravy, and whisk to dissolve the bouillon. Allow the gravy to bubble and thicken for 3 to 5 minutes.

SIXTH STEP: Add the milk to the thickened gravy and whisk until smooth. 

SEVENTH STEP: Turn the heat of the skillet down to low, add the reserved ground beef mixture to the gravy, and allow the gravy to bubble and thicken for an additional 5 minutes.

EIGHTH STEP: Once your hamburger gravy has thickened, you can remove it from the heat and garnish it with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Hamburger gravy is a comfort food classic that fits perfectly into any season or occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or feeding a crowd, this dish always delights. Here are some creative and delicious ways to serve it:

• Perfect for Family Dinners: Spoon hamburger gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes or steaming rice for a meal the whole family will love. The creamy, savory flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike. Add warm, buttery dinner rolls or a side of cornbread for a satisfying finish.
• Ideal for Winter Comfort: On chilly evenings, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate. Serve it over flaky buttermilk biscuits or tender Parmesan noodles for a hearty meal. Pair it with baked mac and cheese or candied carrots to create a cozy dinner your family won’t forget.
• A Hit at Potlucks and Parties: For casual gatherings, bring hamburger gravy as your crowd-pleasing star. Keep it warm in a slow cooker and serve with breadsticks or garlic toast for easy dipping. Complement it with loaded scalloped potatoes or a loaded baked potato casserole to impress every guest.

These fun and flavorful serving ideas will make hamburger gravy your go-to recipe for any occasion!

This hamburger gravy is so easy to make, you’ll wonder how it’s not already a family staple! The rich, savory beef and creamy sauce come together to create the ultimate comfort food everyone will love.

• Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of hearty ground beef and creamy, seasoned gravy creates an irresistible dish that satisfies every craving. Its delicious simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick comfort food fix.
• Effortless Comfort Food: With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an easy way to bring warmth and coziness to your table.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: This recipe’s creamy texture and savory taste make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether for a family dinner or a casual meal, it brings everyone together for seconds and smiles.

What’s the best way to thicken hamburger gravy?
Mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water, then stir it into the gravy while cooking until thickened.

How can I make the gravy extra creamy?
Use heavy cream or evaporated milk instead of regular milk for a richer and creamier gravy consistency.

What’s the secret to the best flavor in hamburger gravy?
Browning the ground beef properly adds depth and richness. Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for extra flavor.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger skillet. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and flavor.

What’s the best way to serve hamburger gravy at dinner?
Ladle the gravy over freshly made mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Should I serve hamburger gravy warm or hot?
Always serve hamburger gravy hot to enjoy its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors at their best.

How can I make this recipe easy to serve for a crowd?
Keep the gravy warm in a slow cooker with a ladle, so everyone can easily help themselves.

What’s the ideal portion size for hamburger gravy?
Plan for about one cup of gravy per person to ensure everyone gets enough of this comforting dish.

Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for storing, making ahead, and reheating hamburger gravy. We’ve got everything you need to keep it fresh and delicious for your next meal!

Can I make hamburger gravy ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the gravy, cool it completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

What’s the best way to store leftover hamburger gravy?
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. Use within two days for the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze hamburger gravy?
Yes, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How should I reheat hamburger gravy?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often, until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed.

Can I use a microwave to reheat hamburger gravy?
Yes, microwave in thirty-second intervals, stirring after each, until evenly heated. Be careful not to overcook.

Hamburger Gravy

Hamburger gravy is a quick, hearty dish packed with savory flavors that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits for the ultimate comfort food everyone will love!

Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Beef, Dinner, Easy Dinner Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 344 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef (I used an 85/15% blend)
• ¾ cup yellow onion (finely chopped)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Better than Bouillon sauteed onion flavor
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup 2% milk

Optional garnish

• 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS

 

• In a large skillet on medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef, finely chopped yellow onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until the ground beef is browned and no pink remains.
• Transfer the beef mixture to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
• Turn the heat of the skillet down to medium and melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth.
• Slowly pour the beef broth into the skillet while whisking to remove any lumps.
• Add the Better than Bouillon and Worcestershire sauce to the gravy and whisk to dissolve the bouillon. Allow the gravy to bubble and thicken for 3 to 5 minutes.
• Add the milk to the thickened gravy and whisk until smooth.
• Turn the heat of the skillet down to low, add the reserved ground beef mixture to the gravy and allow the gravy to bubble and thicken for an additional 5 minutes.
• Once your hamburger gravy has thickened, you can remove it from the heat and garnish it with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

• If you are not using the low-sodium beef broth, I suggest omitting the added salt in this flavorful gravy recipe. You can taste your hamburger gravy at the end of cooking and add the salt if needed.
• If the gravy becomes too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of beef broth at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Nutrition

Calories: 344kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 1020mg | Potassium: 746mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 498IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 98mg | Iron: 3mg

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