Description
Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce
These juicy hamburger steaks are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal! Golden-brown patties made from seasoned ground beef are simmered in a rich, creamy dill sauce that brings comfort food to the next level. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a classic, heartwarming dinner that’s sure to impress the whole family.
1.3 lbs ground beef
4 tbsp breadcrumbs
1 medium yellow onion, grated
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 egg
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp flour
½ cup low sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Directions:
1. Combine steak ingredients, shape into patties, and sear in oil and butter.
2. Cook onion and garlic, add flour, then broth.
3. Stir in cream, add patties, and simmer.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 697
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, salt, pepper, 2 tbsp heavy cream, and egg. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—overmixing will make the patties tough. Form into 4 equal oval-shaped patties, about 3/4-inch thick.
2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Remove the patties to a plate and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the drippings and garlic, whisking constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking vigorously to create a smooth paste. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream and the fresh dill. Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Cover and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, until the patties are cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious dill sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy rice are classic choices. For a lighter option, try roasted asparagus or a simple green salad. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to mop up every last bit of sauce from your plate.
How-to Summary
Mix beef patty ingredients, form into ovals, and sear until browned. Remove patties. In the same pan, cook garlic, whisk in flour, then slowly add broth and cream to make a sauce. Stir in dill, return patties to the pan, and simmer until cooked through in the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh? Yes, but use only 2 teaspoons of dried dill, as it is more potent. Add it when you add the flour to allow its flavor to bloom in the sauce.
How do I know when the hamburger steaks are fully cooked? The safest method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). If you don’t have one, make a small cut in the center of one patty; it should be brown with no pink.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. Cook the patties and sauce completely, then store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half will work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Full-fat coconut milk is a good non-dairy alternative.
Why do I need to grate the onion? Grating the onion incorporates its flavor and moisture seamlessly into the patty without leaving large, crunchy pieces that could cause the patty to fall apart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: This develops the proteins and leads to dense, tough patties. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Not getting a good sear: Ensure your pan is hot before adding patties. Don’t move them for the first few minutes to allow a proper crust to form, which adds great flavor.
- Adding cold cream too quickly: Let the broth mixture cool slightly after thickening before slowly stirring in the cream to prevent curdling.
- Simmering at too high a heat: After adding the patties back, keep the sauce at a gentle simmer. A rolling boil can overcook the meat and cause the sauce to separate.
Conclusion
Hamburger steaks in creamy dill sauce transform simple ground beef into a comforting, restaurant-quality meal. The combination of juicy, seasoned patties and the herbaceous, velvety sauce is both impressive and incredibly easy to achieve. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a reliably delicious dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend feast.