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+ servings
Pamela Dunlap

Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe

Before diving into the delightful world of Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak, let’s explore some fantastic pairings that elevate this dish. Picture a heaping side of creamy mashed potatoes, their buttery texture proving the perfect complement to the savory flavors of the steak. A simple garden salad adds a crisp freshness, balancing the rich taste.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • Meat Mixture:
  • 2 lbs ground chuck
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • cup whole milk
  • 1 slice of white bread torn into small pieces
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped (optional, for a fresh herb touch)

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
  1. First, gather all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chuck, fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, whole milk, the torn white bread, and smoked paprika.
  2. Use your hands to mix everything gently until combined, but avoid overmixing. Shape the mixture into patties about ½ inch thick, making sure they are uniform for even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side, letting them develop a nice golden-brown crust.
  2. Flip the patties and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate, covering them to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
  1. In the same skillet, leave the drippings (this is where the flavor is). Lower the heat to medium-low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant.
  2. Then, sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth, whisking until smooth. Let it simmer until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
  1. Once the gravy has thickened, return the patties to the skillet, ensuring they're covered in the delicious sauce. Allow the patties to simmer in the gravy for an additional 2–3 minutes. This is when they soak up all that savory goodness.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. While the patties simmer, in a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley. This fragrant butter will be drizzled over the steak just before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Plate your hamburger steak, drizzling the thick gravy generously over each patty. Finish with a dollop of garlic butter, allowing it to melt into the warm steak. Serve it with your chosen sides, and enjoy the comforting taste of home!

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSodium: 900mg

Notes

  • Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh ground chuck. Its fat content ensures moist patties that won’t dry out during cooking.
  • Avoid Overmixing: When combining the meat mixture, handle it as little as possible for tender patties.
  • Chill the Patties: If you have time, refrigerate the formed patties for about 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
  • Experiment with Gravy: Feel free to customize the gravy by adding mushrooms, onions, or even a splash of red wine for extra flavor.

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