Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples.
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Comfort food classic: Perfect for cozy family meals.
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Versatile serving: Goes well with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
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Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, simple ingredients.
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Kid-approved: Mild flavors loved by all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Onion (finely chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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All-purpose flour
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Beef broth or stock
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Salt and pepper
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Worcestershire sauce (optional)
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Butter or oil
Directions
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Brown beef: In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
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Add aromatics: Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
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Make roux: Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
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Add broth: Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
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Simmer gravy: Reduce heat and simmer until gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Season: Add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
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Serve: Spoon gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Mushroom gravy: Add sliced mushrooms with onions.
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Creamy gravy: Stir in a splash of cream or milk.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
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Herbs: Add thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
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Low sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works but may need extra seasoning.
How do I prevent lumps in gravy?
Gradually add broth while whisking constantly.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
What can I serve with hamburger gravy?
Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or biscuits.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, add peas, carrots, or green beans for extra nutrition.
Is Worcestershire sauce necessary?
It adds depth but can be omitted or substituted with soy sauce.
How thick should the gravy be?
Thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but pourable.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double ingredients and use a larger pan.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes, it reheats well and flavors meld over time.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge.
Conclusion
Simple Hamburger Gravy is a quick, tasty, and comforting dish that elevates ground beef with a rich, savory sauce. Perfect over your favorite sides and easy to customize, this recipe is a great go-to for satisfying, home-cooked meals any day of the week.

Simple Hamburger Gravy
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Simple Hamburger Gravy is a classic, comforting dish featuring browned ground beef simmered in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this easy-to-make gravy brings hearty flavors to your table quickly using simple pantry staples. A family-friendly, budget-conscious meal that satisfies every time.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth or stock
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
Instructions
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Brown beef: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
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Add aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Make roux: Sprinkle flour evenly over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
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Add broth: Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
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Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer until gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Season: Add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to taste.
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Serve: Spoon gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or your favorite side.
Notes
Add sliced mushrooms with the onions for mushroom gravy.Stir in cream or milk for a creamier texture.For a spicy version, add cayenne or hot sauce.Fresh thyme or parsley adds flavor and color.Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt for a healthier version.