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Juicy beef patties covered in rich, creamy onion gravy, garnished with fresh parsley, served hot in a black skillet.
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5 from 1 vote

Poor Man’s Steak with Onion Gravy

This Poor Man’s Steak with Onion Gravy is hearty comfort food at its best. Juicy beef patties simmered in a savory, rich onion gravy—easy, budget-friendly, and totally delicious.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 426kcal
Author: Joanna Cismaru

Ingredients

For the steak patties:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the gravy:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Shape into 4 oval patties.
  • Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onions. Sauté for 5 minutes until caramelized.
  • Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir well. Gradually whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
  • Return patties to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.

Notes

  1. Ground Beef: Leaner beef works best—85-90% lean ensures juicy patties without excess grease.
  2. Caramelizing Onions: Don’t rush! Proper caramelization deepens gravy flavor immensely.
  3. Gravy Thickness: Adjust gravy thickness easily—too thick, add broth; too thin, simmer a bit longer.
  4. Freezing & Storage: Patties and gravy freeze separately beautifully for easy meals later. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 426kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 129mg | Sodium: 1382mg | Potassium: 707mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 155IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 71mg | Iron: 4mg