Hearty Chopped Steak with Gravy – Perfect for Any Night
Why is a chopped steak recipe with gravy so popular in American homes? It’s easy to make, has a rich flavor, and can be customized to fit any taste. This dish is packed with protein and savory gravy, making it a great way to enhance any meal. We’ll explore the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for a delicious and satisfying dish.
We’ll show you how to make a perfect chopped steak with gravy, from start to finish. This guide is for everyone, whether you’re new to cooking or have lots of experience. You’ll learn how to make a homemade chopped steak and gravy that everyone will love. So, let’s start and uncover the secrets to a memorable chopped steak recipe with gravy.
Table of Contents
Understanding Chopped Steak: A Classic American Dish
A delicious chopped steak dinner is a staple in American cuisine. It has a rich history and unique qualities. To make a tasty chop steak recipe, knowing its differences is key. Unlike hamburgers, chopped steak uses ground beef with about 10% fat for better flavor and texture.
Making chopped steak with gravy involves cooking ground beef patties. Then, simmer them in a gravy with Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. This dish has been loved for generations. It’s quick to make, ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Chopped steak uses ground beef that’s 80-85% lean. This makes it juicy and tender. Cooking time varies based on how done you like it. Rare is 125°F (52°C), and well-done is 160°F (71°C) or above.
What Makes Chopped Steak Different from Hamburger
Chopped steak stands out from hamburger due to its quality ingredients and cooking method. Hamburgers cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Chopped steak patties cook for 4-5 minutes per side to reach the perfect doneness.
The History of Chopped Steak in American Cuisine
Chopped steak has a long history in American cuisine, starting in the early 20th century. It was a budget-friendly option that became popular for its flavor and tenderness. Today, it’s a favorite dish in many restaurants and homes.
| Characteristics | Chopped Steak | Hamburger |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef Fat Content | 10% fat | Variable |
| Cooking Time | 4-5 minutes per side | 2-3 minutes per side |
| Level of Doneness | Rare to well-done | Rare to medium-well |
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Chopped Steak
To make a tasty chopped steak, you need the right ingredients. A classic recipe includes ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices. For the best taste, use 1 pound of ground beef or sirloin. It balances flavor and texture well.
Important ingredients are kosher salt, ground pepper, and onion powder. They enhance the dish’s flavor. Olive oil is needed for cooking the steak. For the gravy, use butter, onions, mushrooms, and garlic. They make the sauce rich and deep.
A traditional recipe also calls for Italian seasoning and fresh chopped thyme. They boost the dish’s flavor. Cornstarch thickens the gravy. Beef stock and half and half or heavy cream add moisture and creaminess.
- 1 pound ground beef or ground sirloin
- ½ medium onion, grated
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup thinly sliced onions
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 ¾ cups beef stock
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos
- ½ cup half and half or heavy cream
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious and flavorful chopped steak. Whether you’re after a classic or the best recipe, these ingredients will help you succeed.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef or ground sirloin | 1 pound |
| Onion | ½ medium |
| Kosher salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon |
Choosing the Right Meat for Your Chopped Steak Recipe with Gravy
Choosing the right meat is key to a tasty chopped steak and gravy. Ground sirloin and ground round are top picks. They mix flavor and tenderness well.
The meat’s fat content matters too. More fat means more flavor and tenderness, but more calories. Fresh meat usually tastes better and feels softer than frozen.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Meat cut: Ground sirloin or ground round are good options
- Meat-to-fat ratio: A balance of flavor and tenderness is key
- Fresh vs. frozen: Fresh meat generally offers better flavor and texture
Choosing the right meat makes your chopped steak and gravy dish great. It doesn’t matter if you like the classic or a new twist. The meat is what makes the meal unforgettable.
| Meat Cut | Meat-to-Fat Ratio | Fresh vs. Frozen |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Sirloin | 80/20 | Fresh |
| Ground Round | 85/15 | Frozen |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty easy chopped steak recipe, you need the right tools. A large skillet is key for even cooking. You’ll also need a mixing bowl and whisk for the gravy.
Other tools include a cutting board, knife, and measuring cups and spoons. A thermometer helps ensure the steak is cooked right. For a homemade chopped steak and gravy recipe, the right tools are crucial for great taste and texture.
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Thermometer
| Tool/Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | For cooking the steak and making the gravy |
| Mixing Bowl | For preparing the ingredients and mixing the gravy |
| Whisk | For mixing the gravy and other ingredients |
With these essential tools, you’re ready to make a delicious easy chopped steak recipe with homemade chopped steak and gravy.
Preparing Your Signature Gravy
To make a tasty chop steak recipe, a special gravy is key. A great gravy can really boost the flavor of your dish. The best recipes use a mix of flour, butter, and beef broth for a rich taste.
Mastering the roux is important for a good gravy. It’s about cooking the flour and butter mix just right. This makes the gravy thick and smooth. Seasoning tips for perfect gravy include using top-notch beef broth and adjusting the seasoning to taste.
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can make a delicious signature gravy. This will enhance your savory chop steak recipe, making it even more enjoyable.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make a delicious chopped steak dinner, start by getting your ingredients ready. You’ll need ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, dried oregano, and ground coriander. Then, shape the mix into 8 mini steaks.
After that, sear the steaks for 2 minutes on each side. Set them aside. In the same pan, cook the sliced onions and mushrooms until they’re soft. Next, add flour to thicken the gravy.
Then, add beef stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Put the steaks back in the pan. Simmer until the gravy thickens. This step is key to how to make chopped steak with gravy as it blends the flavors. Serve the steak with the gravy over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a tasty meal.
The secret to a great chopped steak dinner is balancing flavors and making the steak tender. By following these steps and using top-notch ingredients, you’ll make a delicious chopped steak dinner everyone will enjoy.
Essential Seasoning and Flavor Combinations
To make a flavorful chopped steak and gravy, balance your seasoning and flavors. A good chopped steak recipe with gravy can make the dish amazing. Herbs and spices are key to adding depth and complexity.
Herb and Spice Recommendations
For a great chopped steak recipe with gravy, try thyme, rosemary, and garlic. These add a rich, savory taste that goes well with beef. Thyme gives a subtle minty flavor, while rosemary adds a piney, herbaceous note.
Creating Depth of Flavor
To add depth to your chopped steak with gravy, use sautéed onions, mushrooms, and a bit of Worcestershire sauce. These add a rich, umami flavor. By mixing your seasoning and flavors well, you’ll make a memorable chopped steak recipe with gravy.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making an easy chopped steak recipe, knowing common mistakes is key. Overcooking the steak and using too much flour in the gravy are big no-nos. To get it right, keep an eye on the steak’s cooking time and temperature. Also, use the right amount of flour for the gravy.
Other mistakes to watch out for include:
- Not using a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature
- Not letting the steak rest before serving, which can cause it to become tough and dry
- Using low-quality ingredients, such as low-grade beef or flour, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish
By avoiding these mistakes, you can make a tasty homemade chopped steak and gravy. It’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Always follow a reliable easy chopped steak recipe and use fresh, top-notch ingredients for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
There are many ways to serve a savory chop steak recipe. A classic choice is with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. The creamy potatoes match the steak’s rich taste, and the green beans add freshness.
Other great sides include roasted broccoli, cauliflower, and egg noodles. These add different textures and tastes to your meal. For something new, try cheesy Brussels sprouts or a harvest salad with squash, Brussels sprouts, kale, and apples.
Here are more side dish ideas that go well with a savory chop steak recipe:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted cauliflower
- Egg noodles
- Cheesy Brussels sprouts
- Harvest salad
These options bring a variety of flavors and textures to your meal. By picking one or more, you can make a complete and enjoyable meal that highlights your best chopped steak recipe.
Making Ahead and Storage Tips
When making a flavorful chopped steak with gravy ahead, keep a few tips in mind. Store the steak and gravy in separate containers. This helps keep the steak from getting soggy and the gravy from thickening too much.
A chopped steak recipe with gravy can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for 3 months. To reheat, place the steak in the gravy. This ensures the flavors mix well. Here are some guidelines for storing and reheating:
- Store the steak and gravy in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the steak in the gravy over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the steak is heated through.
- If frozen, thaw the steak and gravy overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a tasty chopped steak and gravy dish even when made ahead. The secret is to store and reheat it right to keep its quality and flavor.
| Storage Method | Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Variations and Dietary Adaptations
There are many ways to make a tasty easy chopped steak recipe. You can use turkey or chicken for a homemade chopped steak and gravy that’s healthier. This makes the dish lower in fat and calories.
Try adding garlic powder or paprika to the meat for a special taste. You can also use different gravies, like mushroom or onion, to enhance the flavor.
If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry. You can make the recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour. Or, use a dairy-free milk to make it lactose-free. Here are some tips for adapting the recipe to different dietary needs:
- Use leaner meats, such as turkey or chicken, to reduce fat and calorie content
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient content of the dish
- Use herbs and spices to add flavor instead of salt and sugar
With a few simple changes, you can make a delicious and healthy homemade chopped steak and gravy. It’s perfect for any weeknight. Whether you want a simple easy chopped steak recipe or something more complex, there’s something for everyone.
Troubleshooting Your Chopped Steak Recipe
When you’re making a savory chop steak recipe, you might run into some issues. These can mess up the texture and flavor of your dish. To get the best chopped steak with gravy, it’s key to spot and fix these problems.
Some common problems with chopped steak include overcooking, not enough seasoning, and a bad texture. Here are some ways to solve these issues:
- Adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking, ensuring the steak is cooked to the recommended internal temperature.
- Add seasonings and spices to taste, using a combination of salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Use the right type of meat, such as ground chuck or ground sirloin, and handle it gently to avoid compacting the meat, which can lead to a dense, tough texture.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious, savory chop steak recipe. Also, make sure to adjust the gravy’s consistency to match the steak. Use a mix of flour and broth to get the perfect balance.
With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll master the best chopped steak recipe. You’ll have a tender, flavorful steak and a rich, savory gravy.
| Troubleshooting Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Overcooking | Adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking |
| Underseasoning | Add seasonings and spices to taste |
| Poor texture | Use the right type of meat and handle it gently |
Conclusion
This classic American dish, flavorful chopped steaks and gravy, has proven its lasting appeal. First shared in December 2015, it has garnered 1,448 comments and a 4.92 out of 5 rating from 539 votes. It’s clear why it remains a favorite.
This recipe is quick to make, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Each serving packs 25 grams of protein, making it a nutritious and comforting meal.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this guide has everything you need. You’ll learn how to pick the best meat and make a delicious gravy. Now, you can make this classic dish a hit at your home.