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There’s a special corner in my heart reserved for Creamed Hamburger Gravy, a dish that’s steeped in memories and warmth. It transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the air was thick with rich aromas of browning beef and sautéed onions. As a child, I would sit on the counter, swinging my legs, captivated by the bubbling pot before me. The sauce would come together, creamy and dreamy, as she stirred with a rhythmic motion, a family recipe passed down like a cherished heirloom. Each spoonful was comfort incarnate—savory with just the right hint of sweetness from the onions, enveloped in a velvety blanket of gravy.
Every time I take a whiff as it simmers away, I’m wrapped in a nostalgic hug, and I just know you’ll feel the same magic when you make this dish at home. Whether you serve it over biscuits for breakfast, or bread for a cozy dinner, Creamed Hamburger Gravy is a warm embrace on a plate that brings everyone together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of caramelized onions and seasoned beef delivers a hearty flavor that’s impossible to resist.
- Versatile Comfort: Delicious over toast, biscuits, or even mashed potatoes – the choice is yours!
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for the whole family. Kids and adults alike will rave about it!
- Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples, you probably have everything you need right at home!
- Budget-Friendly: A filling meal that won’t break the bank, this is comfort food you can feel good about.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
Perfect for that rich, meaty flavor. You can go for lean beef if you prefer a lighter dish!1/4 cup onion, diced
Adds a sweet depth to the gravy. Sauté until translucent for the best flavor!2 cups milk
This makes the gravy creamy—whole milk works beautifully, but you can substitute with 2% or even a non-dairy milk if needed.1/4 cup flour
Helps thicken the sauce to that perfect, dreamy consistency. Make sure to sprinkle it evenly for a smooth gravy.Salt and pepper to taste
Essential seasonings to elevate all those mouthwatering flavors. Don’t skip the salt!Toasted bread or biscuits for serving
The delightful vehicle for your gravy! Toast it just right for a crispy base that holds all that creamy goodness.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, toss in that pound of ground beef along with the diced onions. Sizzle away for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is wonderfully browned and the onions are translucent. Ah, that smell is heavenly! Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep it from being too greasy.
Step 2: Sprinkle in the Flour
Once you’re happy with the beef and onions, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine. Let it cook for about a minute, letting the flour absorb those dreamy flavors and create a lush base.
Step 3: Gradually Add Milk
Now comes the magic! Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps. You’ll see it slowly come together into a beautiful mixture. The aromas are simply divine!
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. You’ll notice it thickening up—it just begins to cling to the back of the spoon like a warm hug. Season it with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as you see fit!
Step 5: Serve It Up
Finally, serve that glorious creamed hamburger gravy over your choice of toasted bread or fluffy biscuits. Dive in, and let that warmth fill you up!
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions; they truly make a difference in flavor!
- Milk Temperature: Using room temperature milk can help it incorporate smoothly with no lumps.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Taste as you go; seasoning can elevate your gravy to the next level!
- Customize Texture: If you love a creamier gravy, feel free to add a splash more milk as it simmers!
Flavor Variations
- Add Garlic: Toss in a couple of minced garlic cloves with the onions for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a warming kick!
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can be added for an earthiness that pairs delightfully with the beef.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley sprinkled on top before serving enhances the dish with freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamed hamburger gravy with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh garden salad to balance out the hearty dish. For a cozy touch, plate it in a wide bowl, with the biscuits on the side, and perhaps pour a cup of steaming coffee or herbal tea. Comfort food never felt so good!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can whip this up ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. It gets tastier as it sits, so it’s a fantastic meal prep option!
Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, consider mixing the creamed hamburger gravy into scrambled eggs for a fantastic breakfast or using it as a filling for a savory pot pie. Delish!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to bring your creamed hamburger gravy back to life is in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great too, just season a bit more for flavor.
What if my gravy is too thick?
No problem! Just stir in a little more milk or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Sure thing! Substitute the milk with a non-dairy option and ensure the butter is dairy-free too!
What can I serve with creamed hamburger gravy?
Try it over toast, biscuits, or even potatoes for a comforting meal. It’s incredibly versatile!
Final Thoughts
As I sit sipping on a warm cup of chamomile tea after whipping up a batch of this nostalgic delight, I can’t help but smile at the simplicity and joy this dish brings. Each bite of Creamed Hamburger Gravy is not just food; it’s a thread that ties generations together, bringing warmth and comfort on even the busiest of days. Whether you’re looking to feed a family or simply indulge in a moment of solitude, I hope this delightful recipe finds a cherished spot in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!
Until next time, keep vibing and keep creating delicious memories in your kitchen! 💖
Creamed Hamburger Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the pound of ground beef along with the diced onions. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef and onion mixture and stir to combine. Cook for about a minute to let the flour absorb the flavors.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps until it forms a beautiful mixture.
- Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the creamed hamburger gravy over toasted bread or biscuits.