Easy Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe for a Hearty Meal

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals that are both satisfying and flavorful, then the Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe is exactly what you need.

This dish has become a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants, known for its tender, juicy hamburger steaks smothered in rich, savory gravy.

But did you know that you can recreate this classic dish right in your own kitchen? This recipe brings the full Cracker Barrel experience into your home, offering the perfect balance of flavors with minimal effort.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this hamburger steak recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Let’s dive into the details and discover why this comforting meal has become a favorite for so many.

What is Hamburger Steak?

At its core, hamburger steak is a simple yet delicious dish consisting of seasoned ground beef formed into patties and pan-seared to perfection.

Unlike a traditional hamburger, hamburger steak is typically served without a bun. Instead, it’s accompanied by rich, flavorful gravy, making it a comforting and hearty meal.

The origins of hamburger steak can be traced back to the classic American diner or steakhouse, where it was a cost-effective yet satisfying option.

The dish is often compared to Salisbury steak, though there are subtle differences, such as the use of seasonings and the type of gravy.

While Salisbury steak often includes additional ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and mushrooms, hamburger steak keeps things simple by focusing on the ground beef and gravy.

What makes hamburger steak so beloved is its versatility and ease of preparation.

The ground beef patties are packed with flavor and cooked to perfection, then topped with a rich, savory gravy that enhances every bite.

Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, it’s a meal that brings comfort and warmth to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate the Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak at home, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create this delicious, comforting dish.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Hamburger Steaks:

• Ground Beef: Choose a high-quality ground beef, preferably 80% lean and 20% fat, to achieve a juicy and flavorful patty.
• Breadcrumbs: This helps bind the meat mixture and adds a soft, tender texture to the hamburger steaks.
• Egg: An egg is essential for binding the ingredients together and helping the patties hold their shape during cooking.
• Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: These seasonings give the hamburger steaks a depth of flavor and a hint of aromatic goodness.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef and bringing out its natural flavors.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a bit of umami and extra richness to the beef mixture.

For the Gravy:

• Beef Broth: The base of the gravy, which gives it a rich, meaty flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety gravy.
• Flour: Used to thicken the gravy and give it a perfect consistency.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To season the gravy to taste and enhance the overall flavor.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak

Step 1: Preparing the Patty Mixture

Start by placing your ground beef into a large bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Gently mix everything together until fully combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in tough patties.

Once everything is incorporated, divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into oval-shaped patties. Aim for patties about 1/2 inch thick so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Cooking the Hamburger Steaks

Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil to prevent sticking.

Once the pan is hot, add the patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden-brown crust and are cooked through.

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for well-done patties. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside, keeping them warm.

Step 3: Making the Gravy

In the same skillet, add the butter and allow it to melt.

Next, add the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, just until it turns a light golden color.

Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Bring the gravy to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

Once the gravy has thickened, return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top of each patty.

Allow the patties to simmer in the gravy for an additional 5 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Serve the hamburger steaks with the gravy poured over the top and enjoy with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for a Perfect Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak

Achieving the perfect Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak involves more than just following the recipe—it’s all about attention to detail.

Here are a few tips to ensure your hamburger steak turns out just right:

Use the Right Ground Beef

Choosing ground beef with the right fat content is crucial for a juicy and flavorful patty.

Ground beef with 80% lean and 20% fat is ideal because the fat helps keep the patty moist and tender while it cooks.

Don’t Overmix the Meat Mixture

When mixing the ingredients together, be sure not to overmix the ground beef.

Overworking the meat can cause the patties to become dense and tough. Mix until just combined, and then shape the patties.

Sear the Patties Well

For a great texture, be sure to get a nice sear on each patty.

Cooking them at medium-high heat will create a delicious crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the patties from searing properly.

Let the Gravy Simmer

Patience is key when making gravy. Allow the gravy to simmer and thicken slowly so it develops a rich, deep flavor.

Stir frequently to prevent lumps, and don’t rush the process.

Serve Immediately

For the best experience, serve your hamburger steaks immediately after assembling them with the gravy.

The patties will absorb the flavors from the gravy and be at their juiciest when fresh.

Enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or any other sides you like!

Variations of Hamburger Steak

While the classic Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak is delicious on its own, there are a few variations you can try to add some unique twists to this comforting dish.

Cheesy Hamburger Steak

For a cheesy variation, simply top each hamburger steak with a slice of melted cheese.

Cheddar works beautifully, but you can also experiment with Swiss, American, or even provolone.

Let the cheese melt over the patties as they simmer in the gravy, creating a rich and gooey layer of flavor.

Mushroom Gravy Hamburger Steak

If you’re a fan of mushrooms, adding them to the gravy is a great way to elevate the dish.

Sauté sliced mushrooms in the same skillet before making the gravy.

Once the mushrooms have softened and browned, proceed with making the gravy as usual.

The mushrooms will add an earthy depth to the sauce, making the dish even more flavorful.

Spicy Hamburger Steak

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy to give it a spicy kick.

You can also incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture for an added burst of heat within the patties themselves.

Sweet Onion Hamburger Steak

If you prefer a sweeter touch to your gravy, try using caramelized onions instead of regular onions.

Slowly cook the onions in butter until they’re golden brown and sweet, then add them to the gravy mixture.

This creates a more mellow, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich beef patties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making hamburger steak, a few common mistakes can affect the texture and flavor of your dish.

Here’s what to avoid:

Overmixing the Meat

It’s important to handle the ground beef mixture gently.

Overmixing it will cause the patties to become dense and tough.

Simply mix the ingredients until they’re just combined, then shape them into patties.

Not Searing the Patties

A good sear is essential for developing a rich, flavorful crust on the patties.

Don’t skip this step! Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the patties and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can prevent the patties from properly browning.

Rushing the Gravy

Gravy takes time to develop its flavor and consistency.

Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow the gravy to cook and thicken slowly so that it has a rich, velvety texture and deep flavor.

Underseasoning the Gravy

The gravy is what brings everything together in this dish, so make sure it’s well-seasoned.

Taste as you go, adding salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce, to create the perfect flavor balance.

Overcooking the Patties

It’s easy to overcook the patties, which can lead to a dry and less flavorful result.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked through (160°F or 71°C for well-done) but still juicy and tender.

Conclusion

The Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak is a timeless, comforting dish that brings a satisfying combination of savory beef patties and rich, flavorful gravy.

Whether you follow the classic recipe or try one of the fun variations, this meal is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

With the right ingredients, careful cooking, and a little attention to detail, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home.

So next time you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal, give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of Cracker Barrel right in your own kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the hamburger steaks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the hamburger steaks in advance. After cooking the patties, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in a skillet and make the gravy fresh.

2. What can I use instead of beef broth for the gravy?

If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth.

Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still result in a delicious gravy.

3. How can I make the gravy thicker?

If your gravy is too thin, you can add a bit more flour to thicken it. Make sure to cook the flour mixture (roux) long enough to remove the raw taste.

Alternatively, you can let the gravy simmer longer to reduce and thicken naturally.

4. Can I freeze leftover hamburger steaks?

Yes, you can freeze leftover hamburger steaks along with the gravy. Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in a skillet over low heat.

5. What sides go best with hamburger steak?

Hamburger steak pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables (like green beans or carrots), or even rice.

Don’t forget a warm biscuit to soak up that delicious gravy!