how to make hamburger steak in the oven

3 min read 15-01-2025

The aroma of a perfectly seared hamburger steak, juicy and flavorful, is hard to beat. But who wants to stand over a hot stovetop for ages? This recipe shows you how to achieve that same delicious result in the oven, minimizing fuss and maximizing flavor. Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

Why Bake Your Hamburger Steak?

Oven-baking your hamburger steak offers several advantages:

Even Cooking: The oven ensures even cooking throughout, preventing dry, overcooked edges.
Less Mess: Less splattering and easier cleanup compared to stovetop cooking.
More Time: You can prep other dishes while the steak bakes, freeing up your time.
Crisp Edges (Optional): A quick sear before baking can add a delightful crust.

Ingredients You'll Need:

1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispness)
1/4 cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep the Hamburger Steak Mixture:

In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough steak. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Shape the Patties:

Form the beef mixture into two or four patties, depending on your preference. Make them about 1-inch thick for even cooking. Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.

3. Optional Sear:

For extra flavor and a crispy exterior, you can sear the patties in a hot skillet with olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side before baking. This step is optional but highly recommended!

4. Bake the Hamburger Steaks:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they're cooked through.

5. Rest and Serve:

Once cooked, remove the hamburger steaks from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.

Serve your delicious oven-baked hamburger steaks with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Steak:

Don't Overmix: Overmixing the beef mixture will make the steak tough. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The most accurate way to ensure your hamburger steaks are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or other spices for extra flavor.
Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle your favorite cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for extra deliciousness.
Make it a Complete Meal: Add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the baking sheet alongside the steaks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I bake hamburger steaks at 350°F?

At 350°F (175°C), you'll need to bake the steaks for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I freeze hamburger steaks before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked hamburger patties before baking. Thaw them completely before cooking.

Enjoy your perfectly juicy and flavorful oven-baked hamburger steaks! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out.