Hamburger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy
Hamburger steaks with mushroom gravy is a dish that, in my opinion, perfectly encapsulates comfort food at its finest. When I first made this recipe, I was instantly transported back to my childhood, where similar warm meals filled the table during family gatherings. The savory combination of beef patties topped with creamy mushroom gravy creates a soul-soothing experience that is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners. There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your fork into a tender steak smothered in rich gravy, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice.
What makes this recipe special
This dish is the epitome of comfort and convenience. It brings together everyday ingredients that are usually on hand, making it both a budget-friendly and a family-friendly option. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet feels special enough for a holiday gathering. Plus, it’s universally loved by kids and adults alike, making it a go-to recipe for meal planning.
“This recipe has quickly become a staple in our home! My kids love it, and I love that it’s so easy to make. Plus, the mushroom gravy is heavenly!” – A satisfied home cook.
Preparing Hamburger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy
Creating this dish involves a straightforward process that will guide you from mixing to baking. You’ll start with some simple prep work and then let the oven work its magic. Gathering your ingredients first will make the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
What you’ll need
To whip up these delicious hamburger steaks, here’s a handy list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1.5 cups Saltine crackers, crumbled
- 1 cup milk (for beef mixture)
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (for gravy)
Feel free to swap out the Saltine crackers for breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Step-by-step instructions

- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 39×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled crackers, milk, Italian herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Shape the beef mixture into patties about 0.5 inches thick.
- Lightly coat each pattie in flour, gently shaking off any excess.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden crust.
- Place the browned patties in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
- In another bowl, whisk the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the remaining cup of milk until smooth. Pour the gravy evenly over the steaks.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the gravy is bubbling and the steaks are cooked through.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving hot!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these hamburger steaks is all about pairing and presentation. Traditionally, they’re perfect alongside creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the savory gravy. For a lighter option, consider serving them over fluffy rice or with buttered noodles. Don’t forget to add a green side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the hearty meal.
Storage and reheating tips
Should you have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat the steaks in the oven to maintain their moisture, or simply microwave them until heated through. If you’re looking to keep them longer, these hamburger steaks freeze beautifully! Just ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing them in freezer-safe bags, where they can last for about three months.
Pro chef tips
- For extra flavor, try adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
- If you’re short on time, consider using pre-made meatloaf mix for an even quicker preparation.
- Serve the gravy over bread for a delightful open-faced sandwich twist.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this recipe. You can add different herbs like rosemary or thyme, switch the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup, or even add cheese to the mixture for a gooey treat. For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with an additional 40 minutes for cooking.
Can I make this without breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to use crushed crackers, oat flour, or panko-style breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and are delicious when reheated.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, these hamburger steaks freeze very well — just make sure they are properly sealed in airtight containers.
Next time you’re in the mood for a comforting yet simple meal that delivers big flavor, don’t hesitate to whip up these hamburger steaks with mushroom gravy. Trust me, your family will thank you!

Hamburger Steaks with Mushroom Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crumbled crackers, milk, Italian herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix until well incorporated.
- Shape the beef mixture into patties about 0.5 inches thick.
- Lightly coat each patty in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden.
- Place the browned patties in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
- In another bowl, whisk the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the remaining cup of milk until smooth.
- Pour the gravy evenly over the steaks in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the gravy is bubbling and the steaks are cooked through.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving hot.
