Savor these budget-friendly beef patties smothered in a creamy mushroom gravy. This classic comfort dish is rich, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s an easy and delicious meal that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly – Uses ground beef for an affordable yet flavorful steak alternative.
- Rich & Hearty – A creamy mushroom gravy makes this dish extra comforting.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Steak Patties:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Prepare the Steak Patties – In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into oval patties.
- Cook the Patties – Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Mushroom Gravy – In the same skillet, melt butter. Add mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Thicken the Gravy – Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
- Add the Cream – Stir in heavy cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer the Patties – Return the patties to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 10 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Cheesy Option – Mix shredded cheddar into the beef mixture.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Extra Veggies – Add bell peppers or carrots to the gravy.
- Lighter Version – Use ground turkey instead of beef and milk instead of cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze patties and gravy separately for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
FAQs
Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh mushrooms add better texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables all pair well.
How do I make the gravy thicker?
Use an extra tablespoon of flour or let it simmer longer.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, then add to the gravy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, make the patties and gravy in advance, then reheat before serving.
What kind of ground meat works best?
80/20 ground beef gives the best flavor and texture.
Can I use cornstarch instead of flour for the gravy?
Yes! Use 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and let the patties chill for 10 minutes before cooking.
Can I make this without dairy?
Yes! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for the cream.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy is a comforting, budget-friendly meal packed with rich flavors and creamy goodness. Whether served over mashed potatoes or rice, this dish is a delicious and hearty dinner option for any night of the week. Try it today and enjoy a home-cooked classic!
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Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Savor these budget-friendly beef patties smothered in a creamy mushroom gravy. A hearty and comforting classic, perfect served over mashed potatoes or rice!
Ingredients
For the Steak Patties:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Patties:
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Form into 4-6 oval patties.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown patties on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- Remove and set aside (they will finish cooking in the gravy).
- Prepare the Mushroom Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms and onions until softened (5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually add beef broth, stirring until smooth.
- Add heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened (5 minutes).
- Simmer & Serve:
- Return the beef patties to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 10 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Notes
- Make ahead: Shape patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- For a deeper flavor, add ½ tsp smoked paprika to the beef mixture.
- Use ground turkey as a lighter alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American