Hamburger Steaks with Dill Sauce

When I need a comforting weeknight dinner fast, these juicy hamburger steaks in creamy dill sauce always come to my rescue. The patties are simple to prep and cook up golden brown before getting swaddled in a rich sauce packed with bright dill flavors. With mashed potatoes on the side, this meal is pure happiness on a plate and comes together in just about 30 minutes.

I threw this dish together one evening when pressed for time and that first forkful was a game changer. It is now a regular request at my table for both busy nights and cozy weekends.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Look for fresh meat with good marbling to ensure juicy steaks
• Breadcrumbs: Help give the patties structure and soak up meat juices
• Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and moisture grated right into the mix
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for deep flavor in both steaks and sauce
• Heavy cream: Binds the patties making them tender and enriches the sauce
• Egg: Holds everything together for a neat patty that does not fall apart
• Olive oil and unsalted butter: Combination for browning the steaks and sautéing aromatics
• Garlic cloves: Give the sauce a savory punch when freshly minced
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the dill cream sauce
• Low sodium chicken broth: Balances the richness of the cream for a silky sauce
• Chopped fresh dill: Bright fresh flavor that makes the sauce sing more for garnish is always welcome

Choose fresh herbs and the best ground beef you can find for standout results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Hamburger Steaks:

Combine grated onion ground beef breadcrumbs salt pepper heavy cream and egg in a large bowl Use your hands to work everything together just until incorporated Shape into four equal balls then gently flatten them to about three quarters inch thick

Prep the Aromatics:

Finely chop the second yellow onion mince the garlic and chop the fresh dill Set all aside for easy access as you build the sauce

Sear the Steaks:

Heat olive oil and butter in a broad nonstick skillet over medium When the fat shimmers add the patties Sear four to five minutes each side reaching deep golden brown Remove to a clean plate

Build the Sauce Base:

Turn the heat to low Add chopped onion and garlic to the pan Cook gently for about two minutes stirring often until aromatic and softened Mix in salt pepper and flour stirring to coat all the vegetables This helps thicken the sauce later

Deglaze and Simmer:

Pour in chicken broth Using a wooden spoon scrape up any browned bits from the pan bottom Simmer two minutes to reduce slightly

Finish the Creamy Dill Sauce:

Stir in the cream and chopped dill Increase heat Briefly bring to a delicate boil then simmer one to two minutes Sauce should begin to thicken and glisten

Return and Warm the Steaks:

Nestle the browned patties back into the skillet Spoon sauce over each Simmer uncovered five or six minutes until hot through and cooked in the center

To Serve:

Scatter extra dill and a crack of fresh pepper on top Serve over mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of sauce

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Fresh dill really lifts the sauce and I never skip it It reminds me of the way my grandmother would finish stews with a flurry of fresh herbs for an unforgettable taste

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it sits simply stir in a splash of broth or milk when reheating to loosen it up. These steaks freeze beautifully for up to two months. Defrost overnight and reheat gently to preserve the creaminess.

Ingredient substitutions

No fresh dill on hand Try parsley for a different freshness in the sauce. You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef but keep in mind the patties may be a bit more delicate. If you need a dairy free sauce use oat cream and a dairy free butter alternative though you will miss out on some richness.

Serving suggestions

Pair these hamburger steaks with creamy mashed potatoes for ultimate comfort. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add color and nutrition. For a low carb twist serve over cauliflower mash instead. Crusty bread on the side is fantastic for wiping up sauce too.

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Cultural and historical context

Hamburger steaks and meatballs simmered in sauce have roots all over Europe especially Scandinavia and Germany where dill and cream are signature flavors. This adaptation brings those traditions to a fast modern table with ingredients easy to find anywhere.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ground beef works best for hamburger steaks?

Look for ground beef with some fat content—around 80/20 or 85/15—so the patties stay juicy and flavorful during searing and simmering.

→ How do I prevent the beef patties from falling apart?

Mixing in breadcrumbs and egg helps the mixture bind together. Shaping firmly but gently also keeps the texture tender.

→ Can I prepare the dill cream sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance, then reheated gently while whisking to maintain its smooth consistency.

→ Are there suggested side dishes for this meal?

Mashed potatoes are classic, but rice or buttery noodles also pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender steaks.

→ How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or cream. For a thicker texture, simmer a bit longer or add more flour.