Juicy Chopped Steak and Gravy: Easy Dinner Recipe
Growing up, my family loved going to the local diner every week. The smell of sizzling beef and rich gravy was irresistible. It drew us to our cozy booth for a big meal.
Chopped steak and gravy was always on the menu. It was the perfect comfort food, especially on cold days. The tender beef and creamy mushroom gravy were a treat.
Now, I’m sharing a recipe that brings back those diner memories. You can make this chopped steak and gravy at home with just a few ingredients. It’s perfect for any meal, big or small.
Key Takeaways
- Chopped steak and gravy is a classic comfort food dish with tender, juicy beef patties and a rich, savory gravy.
- This recipe is easy to make at home and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a great weeknight meal option.
- The dish is highly versatile, with opportunities to customize the flavors and serve it with a variety of sides for a complete and satisfying dinner.
- Proper cooking techniques, such as searing the beef patties and deglazing the pan, are key to achieving maximum flavor in the gravy.
- With tips for making ahead and reheating, this chopped steak and gravy dish is perfect for meal prepping and enjoying as leftovers.
Table of Contents
What is Chopped Steak and Gravy
In the world of southern cuisine, chopped steak and gravy is a beloved classic. It’s a hearty, comforting meal. It shows how cooks turned affordable ingredients into a savory meat dish loved by many.
Origins of This Classic Comfort Dish
Chopped steak started in the early 20th century. It was a cheaper option than expensive steaks. By chopping the beef, cooks could make more meals with less meat. Onions, eggs, and breadcrumbs helped hold the meat together, making it a hearty meal that was also budget-friendly.
Difference Between Chopped Steak and Salisbury Steak
Chopped steak and Salisbury steak may look similar, but they’re not the same. Chopped steak is made from ground beef, onions, and basic seasonings. Salisbury steak, on the other hand, includes mushrooms, garlic, and a mix of spices.
Why This Recipe Works
The charm of chopped steak and gravy is in its simplicity and flexibility. The beef patties are simple to make, and the gravy adds a rich, savory touch. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Chopped Steak
To make the perfect chopped steak, you need the right ingredients. Start with ground beef, preferably 80/20 or 85/15. This mix ensures your steak is juicy and tender. You’ll also need onions, mushrooms, beef stock, fresh thyme, and various seasonings.
For the mushroom gravy, use butter, cornstarch, and half-and-half or heavy cream. Adding crispy bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard can make it even better.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 80/20 or 85/15 ratio |
| Onions (yellow, white, or sweet) | 2 large |
| Mushrooms (button or wild) | As desired |
| Beef stock | 3 cups |
| Fresh thyme or dried herbs | As desired |
| Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder) | As desired |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Cornstarch | 3 tablespoons |
| Half-and-half or heavy cream | As desired |
Choosing and mixing these ingredients will make your chopped steak and gravy dish unforgettable. It’s all about the flavors and textures you create.
Making the Perfect Beef Patties
Making great beef patties is key to a tasty chopped steak and gravy. Start with top-notch ground beef, like an 80/20 or 90/10 blend. This mix offers the best taste and texture. Ground sirloin or ground chuck are great for juicy, flavorful beef patties.
Meat Selection Tips
Choose ground beef with 20% to 30% fat for the best taste. This fat keeps the beef patties moist and tender while cooking.
Seasoning and Mixing Techniques
For flavor, mix the ground beef with grated onion, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add a beaten egg and Worcestershire sauce to hold it together. For more texture, mix in crushed saltine crackers.
Shaping and Sizing Guidelines
Shape the seasoned beef into 5-ounce, 1/2-inch thick patties. Be gentle to avoid making them dense or tough. Season the outside with more salt and pepper before cooking.
Follow these tips for the best meat, seasoning, and shaping. You’ll make perfect beef patties for your chopped steak and gravy.
Creating Rich and Savory Mushroom Gravy
Take your chopped steak to the next level with homemade mushroom gravy. This sauce is the ultimate comfort food. It adds a rich, creamy touch to your juicy steak.
Begin by sautéing sliced onions and mushrooms in butter until they’re golden. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh thyme. Let the aroma fill the air. Then, mix in tomato paste, letting it darken and sweeten.
Thicken the mix with cornstarch. Whisk in beef stock, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until it’s just right. Finish with half-and-half or heavy cream for a smooth, creamy gravy.
The mushroom gravy is a perfect match for your chopped steak. It makes the dish even more comforting. Drizzle it over the steak for a truly satisfying meal.
“The secret to a great mushroom gravy is in the slow-cooked onions and the perfect balance of seasonings.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Learning to make perfect chopped steak and gravy is about mastering key cooking techniques. Follow these steps to make your dish juicy, flavorful, and like it’s from a restaurant.
Preparing the Meat Patties
Start by picking top sirloin steaks, about 5 oz. each. Use your hands to shape the meat into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Season the patties with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Steaks
Heat 2 tsp. of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned patties in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side. Cook the steaks in batches if the pan gets too full. Once browned, take the patties out and set them aside.
Making the Gravy
In the same skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and save the fat in the pan. Sauté the onions and mushrooms in the bacon fat for 15 minutes, until they’re tender.
Add 1 Tbsp. of flour to the pan and stir to coat the vegetables, cooking for 1 minute. Then, whisk in 1 cup of beef stock, 2 Tbsp. of Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite seasonings. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens.
Return the cooked meat patties and bacon to the skillet, letting them soak in the gravy. Simmer the chopped steaks in the gravy for 20-25 minutes, until they’re fully cooked and the flavors are well combined. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley if you like.
“The secret to the best chopped steak and gravy is in the technique – searing the patties to get that delicious caramelized crust, and simmering them in a rich, savory gravy until they’re fall-apart tender.”
Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results
Make your chopped steak and gravy taste like a fancy restaurant dish with these tips. Choose high-quality ground beef, like a mix of chuck and sirloin, for the best taste and texture. When shaping the patties, be gentle to prevent them from becoming tough.
Let the patties warm up at room temperature for a few minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
To get the onions to caramelize, cook them slowly over low heat for up to 45 minutes. Stir them now and then. When they’re dark brown, add a bit of water or wine to the pan. This brings out all the tasty browned bits in the gravy.
To thicken the gravy, mix a beurre manié (butter and flour paste) into it over low heat. Keep stirring until it’s the right thickness.
- Use high-quality, freshly ground beef for maximum flavor
- Handle the patties gently to avoid overworking the meat
- Let the patties rest at room temperature before cooking
- Cook onions slowly over low heat for up to 45 minutes for caramelization
- Deglaze the pan with water or wine to incorporate flavorful fond
- Thicken the gravy with a beurre manié (butter and flour paste)
By using these restaurant-style cooking tips, your chopped steak and gravy will taste amazing. You’ll make a dish that’s truly restaurant-quality right in your kitchen.
Best Side Dish Pairings
Choosing the right side dishes can make your Juicy Chopped Steak and Gravy even better. You can pick from classic favorites or try something new. Each option adds its own special touch to your meal.
Traditional Accompaniments
Mashed potatoes are a timeless choice, pairing well with the savory gravy. Homemade hash browns add a nice crunch. For a lighter option, roasted veggies or a green salad can refresh your taste buds.
Modern Serving Suggestions
Looking for something different? Try creamy cauliflower mash for a low-carb twist. Zucchini noodles or a quinoa pilaf bring in more nutrients. And don’t forget crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up that gravy.
| Side Dish | Pairing Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the rich gravy |
| Hash Browns | Crispy texture provides a tasty contrast to the tender chopped steak |
| Roasted Vegetables | Healthier option that offers a refreshing balance to the dish |
| Cauliflower Mash | Low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes |
| Zucchini Noodles | Nutritious and versatile side that pairs well with the steak |
| Quinoa Pilaf | Protein-packed and flavorful side that complements the dish |
| Crusty Bread | Perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy |
With so many tasty side dishes to choose from, you’re bound to find the perfect match for your Juicy Chopped Steak and Gravy. It’s sure to make your meal unforgettable.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Preparing a delicious chopped steak and gravy dish is just the start. Keeping leftovers fresh is key to enjoying their juicy, flavorful taste. Follow these tips to keep your dish perfect.
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer bags, flat to save space. Thaw frozen leftovers in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat without drying out the meat, use a skillet on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warm. Or, reheat in a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil and a bit of beef stock.
Chef Hervé Malivert suggests letting leftover steak sit at room temperature for 45 minutes before reheating. This helps prevent cold spots. He also recommends using a cast-iron skillet for better heat retention and crust.
Reheated steak might not be as tasty as freshly cooked, due to moisture loss. But with these leftovers, food storage, and reheating techniques, you can still enjoy your chopped steak and gravy.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Chopped steak and gravy is a beloved comfort dish. But, it doesn’t have to be the same every time. With a few tweaks, you can try new flavors and healthier options.
For a healthier choice, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This change cuts down on fat and calories. It also gives you a leaner protein. To make the gravy lighter, try using milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
If you’re gluten-free, swap the traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones or almond flour. This small change makes the dish safe for those with dietary restrictions.
| Ingredient | Substitution | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Ground turkey or chicken | Reduced fat and calories, leaner protein |
| Cream in gravy | Milk or non-dairy milk | Lighter, healthier gravy |
| Breadcrumbs | Gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour | Accommodates gluten-free diets |
For more flavor, try different mushrooms in the gravy. Cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms can add a unique taste. Adding diced bell peppers brings color and extra nutrition. For a low-carb option, serve the steak with cauliflower rice or roasted veggies instead of potatoes.
This classic dish is very flexible. Simple changes can turn it into a variety of tasty and healthy meals. You can make it fit your taste and dietary needs.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making a tasty chopped steak and gravy dish might seem easy, but even pros can make mistakes. Issues like temperature control, seasoning, and gravy texture are common. Knowing these can help you fix problems and get great results at home.
Temperature Control Issues
Keeping the right temperature is key when cooking chopped steak. If the meat gets too hot, it can dry out. If it’s not hot enough, it’s not safe to eat. Cook the steaks at a medium heat to avoid burning or drying.
Seasoning Errors
Not enough seasoning can make your dish taste bland. Too much seasoning can overwhelm the flavors. Always taste and adjust as you go to get the perfect balance.
Gravy Consistency Problems
Getting the gravy just right can be tricky. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry. If it’s too thick, add more beef stock or broth slowly.
By watching out for these cooking errors, you can fix them and make a delicious chopped steak and gravy. This dish will surely impress your loved ones.
Conclusion
Chopped steak and gravy is a comfort food that’s great for family meals or casual get-togethers. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing. This recipe is a budget-friendly, easy dinner option that’s sure to please.
By following the tips in this article, you can make a top-notch chopped steak dish at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try your own twist, it’s a family favorite. Chopped steak is versatile, so you can make it your own and enjoy it at any time.
Chopped steak and gravy has a rich, beefy flavor and tender texture. It’s a true comfort food that will satisfy your cravings and make you happy. So, when you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, try this recipe and enjoy the homemade taste.
FAQ
What is chopped steak and gravy?
Chopped steak and gravy is a budget-friendly meal that brings comfort. It’s made from ground beef patties cooked in a skillet. It’s often served with a rich, flavorful gravy.
How is chopped steak different from Salisbury steak?
Chopped steak and Salisbury steak differ in how the meat is prepared. Chopped steak is a burger made from ground beef, onions, and sometimes eggs. Salisbury steak is seasoned differently.
What are the key ingredients for chopped steak and gravy?
Key ingredients include ground beef or sirloin, onions, mushrooms, and beef stock. You’ll also need herbs, seasonings, butter, cornstarch, and half-and-half or heavy cream for the gravy.
How do you make the perfect beef patties for chopped steak?
Use 90/10 ground sirloin or 80/20 ground chuck. Mix it with grated onion, salt, pepper, and spices. Add an egg and Worcestershire sauce. Shape into 5-ounce patties, 1/2-inch thick.
How do you make the rich mushroom gravy?
Cook sliced onions and mushrooms in butter until golden. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and thyme. Mix in tomato paste, cornstarch, beef stock, and spices. Simmer until thick, then add half-and-half or cream.
What are some common side dishes for chopped steak and gravy?
Traditional sides include mashed potatoes, homemade hash browns, and crusty bread. For a healthier option, try roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
How should you store and reheat leftover chopped steak and gravy?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring until warmed.
What are some recipe variations or substitutions for chopped steak and gravy?
Try using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Substitute cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative. Experiment with different mushrooms or add bell peppers to the gravy.
What are some common cooking mistakes to avoid when making chopped steak and gravy?
Avoid overcooking the patties to prevent dryness. Cook at medium heat to avoid burning. Don’t underseason the meat or gravy. Adjust consistency by simmering longer or adding more stock.