Flavors Worth Savoring
Easy Chopped Steak Recipe: Perfect Comfort Food
As autumn’s chill sets in, nothing warms the soul like a homemade meal. For me, that meal is chopped steak. It reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the flavors and beef would melt in my mouth. Now, I’m excited to share an easy chopped steak recipe for cozy dinners or weekend gatherings.
This easy chopped steak recipe is delicious and simple to make. It takes just 20 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. You can have a tasty, home-cooked meal in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing family and friends.
What Makes Chopped Steak a Classic Comfort Food
Chopped steak, also known as hamburger steak, is a beloved diner classic. It has stood the test of time. This retro cuisine offers a hearty and satisfying comfort food experience. It brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy meals.
Understanding the Difference Between Salisbury and Chopped Steak
Salisbury steak and chopped steak may seem similar, but they are different. Salisbury steak is shaped into individual patties with breadcrumbs or egg. Chopped steak is a large, thick patty without specific portions. This makes chopped steak a quintessential diner favorite.
Regional Variations and Family Traditions
In the United States, chopped steak recipes vary by region and family. Some add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or rich gravy. Others prefer a simpler preparation to let the beef shine. The dish’s enduring appeal is its comfort and ability to suit individual tastes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 17g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g |
| Trans Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 126mg |
| Sodium | 1230mg |
| Potassium | 862mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 371IU |
| Vitamin C | 3mg |
| Calcium | 75mg |
| Iron | 5mg |
The popularity of chopped steak as a classic comfort food comes from its simplicity. It can be enhanced with various ingredients while keeping its comforting taste. Whether enjoyed as a diner classic or a cherished retro cuisine, this hearty dish holds a special place in many hearts and memories.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Chopped Steak Recipe
Making the ultimate chopped steak dish needs the right ingredients. At its core is lean ground beef, like a 90/10 or 80/20 mix. This gives the dish great taste and texture. A few key seasonings also make it special:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Garlic powder for aromatic depth
- Dried herbs like rosemary or dill to complement the savory flavors
- Mustard and paprika for a subtle kick
- Onion, either fresh or powdered, to add sweetness and complexity
- An egg to help bind the meat patties together
- Worcestershire sauce for a touch of umami
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs to give the patties a delightful texture
The mushroom gravy is a must-have for this dish. You’ll need:
- Beef stock or broth to create the foundation
- Fresh mushrooms for earthy flavors
- Onions, sautéed to caramelized perfection
- Fragrant herbs like thyme to elevate the gravy
This recipe is great for those who like meat patty recipes and ground beef dishes. It’s also easy to adjust for different tastes and diets.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings | 4 servings |
“The secret to the perfect chopped steak lies in the careful selection of high-quality ingredients and the attention to detail in the preparation process.”
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the perfect chopped steak begins with handling the meat right and forming the patties. Start by mixing ground beef with seasonings, onions, egg, and binders. Shape the mix into 8-ounce patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Season them well with salt and pepper for searing.
Proper Meat Handling and Patty Formation
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, onions, egg, and seasonings or binders.
- Split the mix into 8-ounce parts and shape each into a 1/2-inch thick patty.
- Season the patties well with salt and black pepper.
Seasoning and Cooking Techniques
Now, it’s time to sear the patties. Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it’s hot. Place the seasoned patties in the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. This creates a nice crust. Don’t press down on the patties to avoid making them dry and tough.
Making the Perfect Gravy
To enhance your chopped steak, make a flavorful gravy. Start by caramelizing onions and sautéing mushrooms in the same pan. Use beef stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Add fresh herbs and let the gravy simmer. Place the seared patties in the gravy and cook until they reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures they’re safe and juicy.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 45 minutes | 55 minutes | 4 | 4 servings |
By following these steps, you’ll make a delicious ground beef dish. It’s perfect for a comforting meat patty or an easy weeknight meal.
Cooking Methods and Time Guidelines
Chopped steak is a versatile dish that can be cooked in many ways. You can choose stovetop cooking, slow cooker recipes, or oven-baked meals. Each method gives a different texture and flavor.
For stovetop cooking, sear the patties until they’re brown on both sides. Then, simmer them in a rich gravy for 20-25 minutes. This way, you get a tender, juicy steak with a tasty crust.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Yield: 2 servings
The slow cooker is great for when you’re in a hurry. Just put the chopped steak in the slow cooker with your favorite gravy. Let it cook on low for about 7 hours. It becomes tender and perfect for a quick dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 5 minutes
- Servings: 2-4
- Yield: 2-4 servings
For a oven-baked option, sear the patties first. Then, bake them in a covered Dutch oven at 350°F for about 2 hours. This method makes the steak incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Servings: 2-4
- Yield: 2-4 servings
Regardless of the method, make sure the steak is at least one-inch thick. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This ensures the steak is juicy and full of flavor, satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Creating Rich Mushroom and Onion Gravy
Take your chopped steak to the next level with a homemade mushroom gravy. The secret to a smooth, rich gravy is caramelizing the onions just right.
Caramelizing Onions to Perfection
Start by cutting a big batch of onions and cooking them on medium heat for 15-20 minutes. Stir them every now and then. This slow cooking brings out the onions’ natural sweetness, adding a deep flavor to your gravy.
Don’t rush this step. The effort you put in here will pay off when you taste the gravy.
Incorporating Mushrooms and Herbs
Once your onions are caramelized, add sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they’re soft, then add beef stock to the pan. This will loosen all the tasty bits.
Next, add fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors mix as the gravy simmers. For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water and slowly add it to the gravy. This will give you a smooth, rich sauce that makes your chopped steak even better.
