Hamburger Steak with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, and Cornbread: A Southern Comfort Classic

When it comes to timeless comfort food, nothing beats the hearty satisfaction of Hamburger Steak with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, and Cornbread. This classic Southern-inspired dinner combines rich flavors and home-cooked goodness, making it a favorite for family meals.

From the juicy hamburger steaks smothered in savory onion gravy to the creamy mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned green beans, every bite feels like a warm embrace. Paired with golden cornbread, this meal is the ultimate homage to home cooking.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Satisfying: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is easy to prepare yet delivers bold flavors.
Perfect for Families: A budget-friendly meal that’s hearty enough to please everyone at the table.
Timeless Southern Flavors: Hamburger steak and gravy is a comfort food classic, and when paired with green beans and cornbread, it’s pure nostalgia.
Versatile: Customize the seasoning, gravy, or sides to suit your preferences.

The History Behind Hamburger Steak

Hamburger steak is a culinary classic that originated as a budget-friendly way to enjoy beef. Often referred to as Salisbury steak in some regions, this dish became a staple in the American South thanks to its simplicity and satisfying flavor. The addition of onion gravy elevates the humble hamburger patty into a comforting and flavorful main course.

Paired with traditional Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned green beans, and cornbread, this meal showcases the essence of home-cooked Southern hospitality.

How to Make Hamburger Steak with Gravy and Sides

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Hamburger Steak:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juiciness)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Gravy:

2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk or cream
4 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Green Beans:

1 lb fresh or canned green beans
2 slices bacon, chopped (optional, for seasoning)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cornbread:

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 egg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Hamburger Steak

In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form into four patties.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove and set aside.

2. Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning gravy over the top. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the steaks are cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water for 15 minutes, or until tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

4. Cook the Green Beans

In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy (if using). Remove and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the green beans, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Make the Cornbread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk, vegetable oil, and egg until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

6. Assemble and Serve

Plate the hamburger steaks with a generous drizzle of onion gravy. Add a scoop of mashed potatoes and a serving of green beans.
Place a warm wedge of cornbread on the side and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Hamburger Steak Dinner

Use Fresh Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 mix to keep the patties juicy.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for maximum flavor.
Customize the Sides: Swap green beans for collard greens or the mashed potatoes for roasted sweet potatoes.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the patties and cornbread batter in advance to save time.

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

This Hamburger Steak with Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, and Cornbread is more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked dinners shared with loved ones. The juicy patties smothered in savory gravy, paired with creamy mashed potatoes and perfectly seasoned sides, create a well-rounded plate that satisfies every craving.

It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and filled with classic Southern flavors, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners.