Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce: A Quick and Comforting Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of juicy ground beef patties and a rich, herbaceous dill cream sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delicious recipe, including step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the dish, and why it’s a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, home-cooked meals. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce

1. Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best: Juicy hamburger steaks smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce? Yes, please! This dish is the epitome of comfort food.
3. Versatile: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory flavors and tender texture of the hamburger steaks.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: The dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping.

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Ingredients for Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce

Before we get into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. The recipe is divided into two parts: the hamburger steaks and the creamy dill sauce.

For the Hamburger Steaks:

• 1.3 pounds ground beef: Opt for ground beef with a bit of fat (80/20) for the juiciest patties.
• 4 tbsp breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and keeps them tender.
• 1 medium yellow onion (grated): Adds moisture and flavor to the patties.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the beef.
• 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
• 2 tbsp heavy cream: Keeps the patties moist.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.

For the Creamy Dill Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Provides a sweet, savory base for the sauce.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances the flavors.
• 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds depth and richness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
• 2 tbsp chopped dill (plus more for serving): The star of the sauce, providing a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks

1. Grate the Onion: Start by grating the medium yellow onion into a large bowl. This will add moisture and flavor to the patties.
2. Mix the Ingredients: Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, heavy cream, and egg to the bowl with the grated onion. Use your hands to mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
3. Shape the Patties: Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then press it down with the palm of your hand or a spatula to form a patty about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick. Set the patties aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce Ingredients

1. Chop the Onion and Dill: Finely chop the small yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves. Chop the dill and set it aside.
2. Cook the Hamburger Steaks: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the hamburger steaks and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer the cooked patties to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Reduce the heat to low and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring until incorporated. This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Add the heavy cream and chopped dill to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the Patties to the Skillet: Place the hamburger steaks back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Simmer for 5-6 minutes, or until the patties are heated through and no longer raw in the center.
2. Finish with Fresh Dill: Sprinkle additional chopped dill over the top and add a pinch of freshly grated black pepper for extra flavor.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the hamburger steaks hot, spooning plenty of the creamy dill sauce over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.

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The History and Evolution of Hamburger Steaks

Hamburger steaks, also known as Salisbury steaks, have a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. The dish was popularized by Dr. J.H. Salisbury, an American physician who believed that a diet consisting mainly of lean ground beef could improve health and cure various ailments. While his medical theories have since been debunked, the dish he inspired has remained a beloved comfort food.

Originally, Salisbury steaks were made with minced beef, seasoned with salt and pepper, and served with a simple gravy. Over time, the recipe evolved to include additional ingredients like onions, breadcrumbs, and eggs, which help bind the patties and enhance their flavor. The dish gained widespread popularity during World War I and II, when it was promoted as an economical and nutritious meal for families.

Today, hamburger steaks are enjoyed in various forms around the world. In Japan, for example, they are often served with a demi-glace sauce and accompanied by rice and vegetables. In the United States, they are typically served with mashed potatoes and gravy, making them a staple of Southern cuisine.

The addition of creamy dill sauce to hamburger steaks is a modern twist that adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish. Dill, with its bright, slightly tangy taste, pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the beef and cream. This combination elevates the humble hamburger steak into a gourmet meal that is both comforting and sophisticated.

 Tips for Perfecting Your Hamburger Steaks

Creating the perfect hamburger steaks requires a balance of the right ingredients, techniques, and a bit of patience. Here are some tips to ensure your hamburger steaks turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time.

1. Choose the Right Ground Beef: The fat content in your ground beef plays a crucial role in the juiciness and flavor of your patties. Opt for ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20 (80% lean meat, 20% fat). This ratio ensures that your patties remain moist and flavorful without being overly greasy.
2. Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the ingredients for your hamburger steaks, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense patties. Use your hands to gently combine the ingredients, and stop as soon as the mixture holds together.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated onion, minced garlic, and chopped dill make a significant difference in the flavor of your dish. Fresh herbs and vegetables have a more vibrant taste compared to their dried or pre-packaged counterparts.
4. Let the Patties Rest: After shaping your hamburger steaks, let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking. This allows the proteins in the meat to relax, resulting in more tender patties.
5. Cook Over Medium Heat: Cooking your patties over medium heat ensures that they develop a nice, golden-brown crust without burning. It also allows the inside to cook evenly without drying out.
6. Deglaze the Pan: When making the creamy dill sauce, be sure to deglaze the pan with chicken broth. This step not only adds flavor to the sauce but also helps to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

 Pairing Suggestions for Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce

While hamburger steaks in creamy dill sauce are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some suggestions for side dishes that complement the flavors of this dish perfectly.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for hamburger steaks. The smooth texture of the potatoes contrasts beautifully with the juicy patties, and they serve as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the delicious dill sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini, adds a healthy and colorful element to your meal. The caramelized edges of the vegetables provide a nice contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.
3. Rice: Steamed white or brown rice is another excellent option. The mild flavor of the rice allows the savory beef and herbaceous dill sauce to shine. For an extra touch of flavor, consider cooking the rice with a bit of chicken broth instead of water.
4. Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the hamburger steaks. Consider using a mix of greens, such as arugula, spinach, and romaine, and add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch.
5. Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate. Consider serving a baguette or sourdough bread alongside your meal.
6. Buttered Noodles: If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty side dish, buttered egg noodles are a great choice. The mild flavor of the noodles pairs well with the rich, creamy sauce, making for a satisfying and cohesive meal.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 697 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 61g
• Saturated Fat: 29g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 23g
• Trans Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 229mg
• Sodium: 1305mg
• Potassium: 527mg
• Fiber: 0.4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 1137 IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 87mg
• Iron: 4mg

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish. Keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so the patties may be slightly less juicy.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the hamburger steaks and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What Can I Serve with Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Can I Freeze This Dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked hamburger steaks and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

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Final Thoughts

Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce is a dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its juicy beef patties and rich, herbaceous sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.