Best Homemade Hamburger Gravy Recipe

This creamy and savory hamburger gravy is comfort food at its best! Made with ground beef, onions, and a velvety roux, it’s perfect over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice. Easy, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor, it's a family favorite for any occasion!

When it comes to comfort food that warms your soul, hamburger gravy ranks high on the list. Imagine a thick, savory, creamy gravy, infused with the delicious flavor of browned ground beef, poured generously over fluffy mashed potatoes, biscuits, or even rice. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a hearty meal to impress guests. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll create a dish that feels like it took hours but comes together in no time.

What is Hamburger Gravy?

Hamburger gravy is a classic, down-home dish made by cooking ground beef in a flavorful sauce or gravy base. The creamy consistency of the sauce balances perfectly with the rich, meaty flavor of the beef. This dish has its roots in American comfort food culture, cherished for its simplicity and versatility.

There are countless variations of hamburger gravy, from the basic flour-and-milk roux to versions that include onions, garlic, and even Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Our version leans into the creamy, rich side of things while incorporating a few thoughtful ingredients for depth and complexity.

If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also want to try this Lamb Ragu D’Rose Mary recipe or the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for more inspiration.

Ingredients for Hamburger Gravy

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here's what you’ll need:

Ground Beef

Opt for an 80/20 ground beef blend. The fat adds flavor and ensures a juicy, tender result. Leaner beef works, but you’ll miss some of that rich, robust taste.

Onion

A finely chopped yellow onion brings a sweet, aromatic base to the dish. If you prefer a more subtle flavor, white onions work well, too.

Garlic

Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor, adding depth to the gravy. Avoid garlic powder here for the best results.

Butter

Unsalted butter helps form the roux, giving the gravy its silky texture. If you’re out of butter, margarine or even bacon grease can work in a pinch.

Flour

All-purpose flour is essential for thickening the gravy. It creates the base for a velvety, lump-free sauce.

Milk

Whole milk gives the gravy its creamy consistency. For a richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half or even heavy cream.

Worcestershire Sauce

A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami kick that balances the richness of the gravy.

Smoked Paprika

This spice isn’t traditional, but it lends a hint of smoky warmth that sets this version apart.

Salt and Black Pepper

Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning. Add these gradually to bring out all the flavors in the dish.

Optional Garnish: Fresh Parsley

A sprinkle of parsley on top adds color and a fresh, herbal note.

For a side to complement this dish, check out Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes or Tippins Cornbread Recipe to round out the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Gravy

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.
2. Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
3. Versatile: Pairs well with potatoes, biscuits, or even pasta.
4. Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights in.

If you’re planning a special occasion, you could pair this with something like Captain D’s Slaw for a classic comfort food spread.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hamburger Gravy

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Drain any excess grease.

2. Create the Roux

Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden. This step ensures the gravy doesn’t have a raw flour taste.

3. Add the Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Combine the roux and the meat mixture, stirring until smooth.

4. Season the Gravy

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until thickened.

5. Serve and Garnish

Spoon the gravy over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

If you love bold flavors, try pairing this with a Street Corn Popcorn Seasoning as a side snack for something unique and unexpected.

Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Gravy

• Prevent Lumps: Always whisk the roux and milk thoroughly before combining with the beef.
• Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk. Too thin? Simmer longer to reduce.
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

For another hearty and savory dish, consider trying the Chicken Souse or Easy Jhol-Like Sauce Recipe.

Pairing Ideas

Hamburger gravy is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery for a classic pairing.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: Flaky and soft to soak up the gravy.
• Egg Noodles: For a stroganoff-inspired twist.
• Rice: Simple and perfect for soaking up every drop.

Try combining this dish with something sweet for dessert, like Heaven and Hell Sheet Cake or Snickers Strawberry Cheesecake to finish the meal.

Homemade Hamburger Gravy Recipe

A creamy, flavorful hamburger gravy made from scratch! Perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. A hearty and comforting meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
2. Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and smooth.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to combine. Stir the roux into the meat mixture, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
5. Serve the hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes, biscuits, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

10 minutes prep time with 20 minutes cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 275 calories per serving.

American / Main Course, Comfort Food

Rated 4.9 by 178 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: hamburger gravy, homemade gravy, comfort food, easy dinner recipes, ground beef recipes

Published by: Show Recipe