Hamburger Gravy Recipe

Ground beef: Provides the hearty base for the gravy.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

Garlic: Enhances the savory taste.

All-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy.

Beef broth: Creates a rich, savory base.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the gravy.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.

When cooking the ground beef, ensure you break it up into small, even pieces to promote even browning. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your hamburger gravy. Additionally, when adding the flour to the skillet, make sure to stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This will result in a smoother, more velvety gravy.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken is a lighter alternative that still offers a meaty texture.

• ground beef - Substitute with lentils: Lentils are a great plant-based option that provides protein and a similar texture when cooked.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as onions.

• onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a subtle onion flavor and can be used in a similar manner.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic; use ⅛ teaspoon per clove.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a mild garlic flavor and can be minced and used similarly.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch is a gluten-free thickening agent; use half the amount of flour.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is a gluten-free alternative that can be used in the same quantity.

• beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth provides a lighter flavor but still adds depth to the gravy.

• beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a vegetarian option that adds a different but complementary flavor.

• milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a creamy texture to the gravy.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in savory dishes.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

• pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• Allow the hamburger gravy to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to a watery texture.

• Transfer the cooled gravy into airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion if freezing.

• Label the containers or bags with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of how long the gravy has been stored.

• Store the hamburger gravy in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within 3-4 days. Place it in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain its freshness.

• For longer storage, place the containers or bags in the freezer. The gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor and texture.

• When ready to use, thaw the gravy in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the quality of the gravy.

• Reheat the hamburger gravy on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of milk or beef broth to restore its original consistency.

• If reheating in the microwave, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid hot spots and ensure even heating.

• Always check the gravy for any signs of spoilage before consuming. If it has an off smell, unusual texture, or discoloration, it's best to discard it.

• For stovetop reheating:

  1. Place the leftover hamburger gravy in a skillet or saucepan.
  2. Add a splash of beef broth or milk to help loosen the gravy.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  4. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

• For microwave reheating:

  1. Transfer the hamburger gravy to a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until the gravy is hot, stirring each time.

• For oven reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the hamburger gravy in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Heat in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the gravy is hot and bubbly.
  5. Stir halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.

• Skillet: A large, flat-bottomed pan used for browning the ground beef and cooking the onions and garlic.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the ground beef and mixing the ingredients together.

• Knife: Essential for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the flour accurately.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the beef broth and milk.

• Whisk: Helps in stirring the flour into the mixture to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth gravy.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the mixture as it thickens.

• Colander: Used to drain excess fat from the browned ground beef.

• Mixing bowl: Handy for holding the chopped onions and minced garlic before adding them to the skillet.

Pre-cook the beef: Cook the ground beef in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to the skillet when you're ready to make the gravy.

Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by using pre-chopped onions available in most grocery stores.

Garlic paste: Substitute minced garlic with garlic paste to cut down on prep time.

Instant thickening: Use a gravy mix or cornstarch slurry instead of flour to thicken the sauce faster.

One-pot method: Cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic together in one pot to save on cleanup time.