Chopped steak is a classic comfort food that’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chopped steak that’s juicy and packed with savory goodness, you’re in the right place. This article will walk you through the steps to create a mouthwatering chopped steak dish, complete with rich onion and mushroom gravy, perfect for a cozy dinner.
What Is Chopped Steak?
Chopped steak, sometimes called hamburger steak, is ground beef formed into patties and cooked like a steak. It’s often served with a savory gravy made from caramelized onions, mushrooms, and beef stock. This dish is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional steak but doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic chopped steak with gravy, gather the following ingredients:
– Ground beef or ground sirloin (about 2 pounds)
– Sea salt and cracked black pepper
– Bacon strips (optional, for added flavor)
– Yellow onions (2 small, thickly sliced)
– Mushrooms (4 cups, halved or sliced)
– Beef stock (4 cups)
– Fresh thyme (2 teaspoons)
– Olive oil or butter for cooking
– Optional: shredded potatoes for hash browns as a side
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Form and Season the Patties
Start by dividing your ground beef into 8-ounce portions. Use your hands to gently shape them into patties—no need for perfection here. Season both sides generously with sea salt and cracked black pepper. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning.
2. Cook the Bacon (Optional)
If you’re using bacon, chop it into small pieces and cook it in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until crispy, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan for cooking the steaks.
3. Sear the Chopped Steaks
Place the patties in the hot pan with the bacon fat (or a bit of olive oil if skipping bacon). Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until nicely browned but not fully cooked through. This step locks in the juices and builds flavor.
4. Caramelize Onions and Mushrooms
Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside. Add sliced onions and mushrooms to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring every few minutes. Let them caramelize until golden brown and tender, about 15 minutes. This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor of your gravy.
5. Make the Gravy
Pour in the beef stock and add fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Return the chopped steaks and cooked bacon to the pan. Simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the steaks to finish cooking and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Optional Hash Browns Side
For a classic pairing, cook shredded potatoes in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and crispy, about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for Perfect Chopped Steak
– Don’t overwork the meat: Handle the ground beef gently when forming patties to keep them tender.
– Use good quality beef: Ground sirloin or a mix with some fat content gives the best flavor and juiciness.
– Caramelize slowly: The longer you cook the onions and mushrooms, the richer your gravy will be.
– Simmer gently: Avoid boiling the gravy too hard to keep the meat tender.
Variations to Try
– Add garlic and Italian seasoning to the gravy for an herby twist.
– Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard for extra depth.
– Top with melted cheese for a decadent finish.
Chopped steak is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s easy to customize. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with rich gravy and sides, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy your homemade chopped steak dinner!