When it comes to hearty comfort food, nothing beats Smothered Hamburger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy. Juicy beef patties, seared to perfection, are baked in a creamy mushroom sauce until tender and flavorful. This Southern-inspired dish is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, or anytime you crave a cozy, filling meal.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
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Families who want a budget-friendly yet satisfying dinner.
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Busy cooks looking for a make-ahead meal that reheats well.
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Comfort food lovers who enjoy classic homestyle dishes.
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Beginner home cooks—the steps are simple, but the flavors are restaurant-worthy.
Why it’s Great
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Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and ground beef.
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Comforting Flavors: Juicy patties with creamy mushroom gravy.
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Versatile: Pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Patties
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2 lbs ground beef
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1½ cups crushed saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
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1 cup whole milk
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper
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Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
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All-purpose flour (for dredging)
For the Gravy
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2 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz each)
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1½ cups whole milk
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1½ tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Large mixing bowl
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Skillet
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Spatula or wooden spoon
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Foil for baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
Whisk together condensed mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in chopped parsley and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined. Shape into evenly sized patties.
Step 4: Dredge & Sear
Lightly dredge each patty in flour. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear patties on both sides until golden brown (they will not be fully cooked yet).
Step 5: Bake
Arrange seared patties in the prepared baking dish. Pour the gravy mixture evenly over the patties. Cover with foil and bake for 30–40 minutes, until patties are tender and fully cooked.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze patties with gravy in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating Tip: Warm gently in the oven or on the stove to keep the patties juicy.
FAQ
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Just reduce the baking time slightly since leaner meats cook faster.
Q: Can I make the gravy from scratch?
Absolutely. A simple roux with beef broth, cream, and mushrooms makes a great homemade alternative.
Q: What side dishes go best with this recipe?
Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, roasted veggies, or cornbread pair perfectly.
Q: How do I prevent dry patties?
Don’t overmix the beef mixture and make sure they bake covered in gravy.
Conclusion
This Smothered Hamburger Steak with Mushroom Gravy is everything comfort food should be—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s the perfect dinner for busy weeknights or cozy family meals. Serve it with mashed potatoes or rice, and you’ll have a dinner that everyone will ask for again and again.
