Why You’ll Love this Baked Hamburgers Recipe
When you try this baked hamburger recipe, you’ll quickly realize why it’s a family favorite. The combination of savory beef, tender onions, and creamy mushroom soup creates a dish that’s comforting and satisfying. I love how easy it’s to prepare; just mix the ingredients, form patties, and let the oven do the work. The rich gravy that bakes over the burgers not only enhances the flavor but also keeps everything moist. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze! I’ve served it countless times, and every time, my family can’t get enough. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe has become a go-to that brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients of Baked Hamburgers
When it comes to making baked hamburgers, the ingredients are simple yet flavorful, blending together perfectly to create a comforting meal that everyone will love. You probably already have some of these items in your pantry, which is just fantastic because who doesn’t love a recipe that doesn’t require a last-minute trip to the grocery store?
Let’s break down what you’ll need for this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Kitchen Bouquet
- 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- Water (to rinse out the can)
- Gravy (for serving, optional)
Now, while the ingredient list is straightforward, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The ground beef is the star here, so you might want to opt for a leaner cut to avoid too much grease while baking.
And those breadcrumbs? They’re not just filler; they help keep your patties tender and juicy. You can use regular or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on what flavor profile you’re after. If you’re feeling adventurous, maybe throw in some garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
The evaporated milk adds creaminess, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with regular milk—just keep an eye on the moisture level.
Oh, and don’t forget about that can of cream of mushroom soup; it’s essential for that rich, comforting gravy that ties everything together.
How to Make Baked Hamburgers
Making baked hamburgers is a breeze, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds. First, gather your ingredients and get ready to roll up your sleeves. Start with 1 lb of ground beef**, and toss it into a large mixing bowl. Then, add in 1/2 cup of chopped onion**—the more, the merrier, right?
Next up, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs**. They’re like the glue that holds everything together, plus they keep the patties nice and juicy. Now, here comes the secret weapon: pour in 3/4 cup of evaporated milk. This little addition makes all the difference, creating a tender patty that’s bursting with flavor. Go ahead, mix everything up with your hands (yes, it can get messy, but that’s half the fun), and form the mixture into patties**.
Once your patties are ready, it’s time to brown them up. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook those patties for just a few minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step not only adds color but also seals in the juices. Think of it as giving your burgers a little tan before they head into the oven.
Once browned, transfer the patties to a 9×13 pan. Now for the fun part—making the gravy! In a separate bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of ketchup**, 1 tablespoon of Kitchen Bouquet (trust me, it’s a game-changer), 1 can of cream of mushroom soup**, and a splash of water to rinse out the can. This step is key; it adds that creamy, savory goodness that smothers the patties.
Pour this delightful mixture over the burgers in the pan. Pop the whole thing into a preheated oven at 350 degrees and let it bake for an hour. Oh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in like moths to a flame.
When the timer goes off, you’ll have a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Serve your baked hamburgers alongside some fluffy mashed potatoes and peas, and you’ll be the dinner hero of the evening.
Just remember, if things don’t go exactly as planned—like if you accidentally drop a patty on the floor—don’t stress. Just pick it up, give it a little rinse (kidding, don’t do that), and keep going. Cooking is all about enjoying the process, and trust me, you’ll nail it.
Baked Hamburgers Substitutions & Variations
After mastering the basics of baked hamburgers, you might want to experiment with some substitutions and variations to keep things exciting.
For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce for a fresher flavor.
If you’re looking for a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the gravy mixture.
For a vegetarian option, use black bean patties and replace the soup with a vegetable-based sauce.
Finally, don’t hesitate to mix in different spices or herbs, like garlic powder or Italian seasoning, to personalize your baked hamburgers to your liking!
What to Serve with Baked Hamburgers
What pairs well with baked hamburgers to create a satisfying meal? I love serving them with creamy mashed potatoes. The rich gravy from the hamburgers perfectly complements the potatoes, creating a delightful combination.
Steamed peas are another fantastic side; their bright color adds a nice contrast on the plate and their sweetness balances the savory flavors.
If I’m feeling a bit more adventurous, I might whip up a fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Sometimes, I even add a side of roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
Each of these options enhances the meal, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Trust me; your dinner guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing baked hamburgers, keep in mind a few helpful tips to enhance your dish.
First, using lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease, resulting in a healthier meal.
Don’t skip browning the patties; it adds depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
If you want extra moisture, consider adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the meat mixture.
For a twist, try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with a different flavor, like cream of chicken.
Finally, let your baked hamburgers rest for a few minutes after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute, making them juicier.
These simple tips will elevate your baked hamburgers to a whole new level of deliciousness!