Onion Gravy Smothered Steak Recipe

Introduction

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a savory and satisfying dish that combines tender, juicy steak with a rich, flavorful onion gravy. This classic comfort food is perfect for a hearty meal any time of the year. The steak is seared to perfection and then drenched in a delicious onion gravy that’s rich, savory, and full of depth. Served alongside mashed potatoes or rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or just craving a filling meal, Onion Gravy Smothered Steak offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the onions contrasts with the savory richness of the beef, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, tips, and suggestions for variations to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

• Tender, Juicy Steak: The steak is cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. The rich onion gravy enhances the flavor and adds moisture to the meat.
• Rich, Savory Gravy: The onion gravy is the star of this dish, with caramelized onions, beef broth, and a touch of seasoning creating a deep, savory sauce that’s perfect for smothering the steak.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is the definition of comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. The combination of steak and gravy pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of vegetables.
• Simple Ingredients: With a handful of basic ingredients like steak, onions, and beef broth, you can create a flavorful and filling meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a dish that works for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 10-12g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Onion Gravy Smothered Steak:

• 4 boneless or bone-in steaks (such as sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth (or more, depending on gravy consistency preference)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional for added umami)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Onion Gravy Smothered Steak doesn’t require special tools, the following pieces of equipment can make your cooking experience easier:

1. Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: A large skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for searing the steak and making the gravy. A cast-iron pan holds heat well, ensuring a nice sear on the steak and even cooking for the gravy.
2. Tongs: Tongs are perfect for flipping the steak while it cooks, allowing you to handle the meat without piercing it and losing precious juices.
3. Wooden Spoon or Whisk: A wooden spoon or whisk helps you stir the onions and gravy, ensuring the mixture doesn’t stick to the pan and everything cooks evenly.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important to ensure your gravy has the perfect consistency and flavor. Measuring cups and spoons will help you achieve the best results.
5. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the onions evenly and chopping the garlic. It will also help you carve the steak after it’s cooked.
6. Lid for the Pan: A lid will help the gravy reduce and thicken, while also ensuring the steak stays juicy and tender.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak

Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper. If you prefer a specific cut of steak, choose one that has a good amount of marbling, like ribeye, or a leaner cut like sirloin or flank steak.

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the steaks to the pan. Sear the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time depending on your preferred level of doneness. For a medium steak, sear for 6-7 minutes per side.

Once seared, remove the steaks from the pan and set them aside to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring tender steaks.

2. Caramelize the Onions

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until they become soft and caramelized. The natural sugars in the onions will brown, adding sweetness to the gravy.

Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Create the Gravy Base

Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and garlic, stirring to coat. The flour helps to thicken the gravy as it cooks. Cook the mixture for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the gravy has thickened. Add the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (optional), and fresh thyme, and stir to combine. The Worcestershire sauce adds a rich umami flavor, while the thyme adds a fresh herbal note.

Add the bay leaf for additional depth of flavor and let the gravy simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Finish Cooking the Steaks

Return the cooked steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover the pan with a lid and let the steaks simmer in the gravy for 5-10 minutes, depending on how well-done you want your steaks. The gravy will continue to thicken as the steaks cook.

Once the steaks reach your desired doneness, remove them from the pan and set them aside to rest for a few minutes. This ensures the juices stay inside the meat and the steak remains juicy and tender.

5. Finish the Gravy

Remove the bay leaf from the gravy and stir in the butter. This adds richness to the gravy and enhances the flavor. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

Place the steaks on serving plates and spoon the onion gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

• Searing the Steak: Make sure your skillet is hot enough to get a good sear on the steak. This helps lock in the juices and creates a flavorful crust on the steak.
• Use Good Quality Beef Broth: The beef broth is the base of the gravy, so using a high-quality broth will enhance the flavor. You can also use homemade broth if you have it.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Steak continues to cook after it’s removed from the heat, so take it off when it’s a few degrees shy of your desired doneness. Let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
• Caramelize the Onions Slowly: The key to a rich gravy is properly caramelized onions. Don’t rush this step—low and slow cooking brings out the best flavor.
• Adjust Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Variations of Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

• Mushroom and Onion Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions while they caramelize for a savory, earthy flavor. Mushrooms pair wonderfully with steak and add depth to the gravy.
• Peppercorn Gravy: Add crushed black peppercorns to the gravy to give it a slight heat and additional flavor. This adds a peppery kick that complements the richness of the steak.
• Garlic Herb Gravy: Incorporate fresh garlic and herbs like rosemary or oregano into the gravy for a more aromatic and flavorful sauce. This adds a Mediterranean twist to the dish.
• Spicy Onion Gravy: Add a small amount of chili flakes or fresh jalapeños to the onion gravy to give the dish a spicy kick. This variation pairs well with a slightly more robust steak, like flank steak.

Storage and Shelf Life

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Allow the steak and gravy to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the steak and gravy. Place the cooled steak and gravy in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the steak and gravy overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Pair this delicious steak dish with the following side dishes for a complete meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the savory onion gravy.
• Rice: Steamed white rice or even wild rice complements the rich steak and gravy.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a fresh contrast to the hearty steak.
• Green Beans Almondine: A side of green beans with almonds adds a crunchy texture and lightness to balance the richness of the steak.

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Conclusion

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender steak with a rich, savory onion gravy. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or anytime you’re craving a hearty meal. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Whether paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds every time.