Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe

Imagine the juiciest hamburger steaks you’ve ever tasted, nestled in a silky, herbaceous sauce that clings to every bite. That’s what you get with Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce—a dish that transforms humble ingredients into weeknight magic. Perfectly seared patties, a rich yet fresh sauce, and the punch of dill combine for a meal that’s equal parts cozy and impressive. This is comfort food with a Scandinavian twist and a little more elegance than your average burger night. If you’re searching for a meal that satisfies both cravings and curiosity, this dish should leap to the top of your must-try list!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce has a role to play—some add tenderness, others bring savory depth, and a few, like fresh dill, turn a good meal into an unforgettable one. The best part? You’ll find these items are simple pantry and fridge staples, yet together they create pure dinnertime alchemy.

• Ground beef (1.3 pounds): Choose 80–85% lean for steaks that stay juicy and flavorful without becoming greasy.
• Breadcrumbs (4 tbsp): These help bind the patties and keep them extra tender; panko or regular both work well.
• Yellow onion, grated (1): Grating the onion melts it seamlessly into the meat, adding both flavor and moisture.
• Salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning both the steaks and the sauce.
• Black pepper (1 tsp): Provides gentle heat and extra savoriness.
• Heavy cream (2 tbsp, plus 1 cup for sauce): Cream makes the burger steaks decadent and gives the sauce its signature richness.
• Egg (1): Helps bind the hamburger steaks so they stay intact while cooking.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): For frying the burgers and adding subtle flavor to the dish.
• Unsalted butter (1 tbsp): Brings out richness in the sauce and helps brown the onions perfectly.
• Yellow onion, diced (1): This second round of onions builds layers of sweet, aromatic flavor into the sauce.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2): Adds warmth and depth to the creamy sauce.
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• Low sodium chicken broth (½ cup): The backbone for the sauce, it keeps everything savory without overpowering the delicate dill.
• Dill, chopped (2 tbsp, plus more for serving): The star herb that transforms the sauce—use fresh for best results!

How to Make Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Hamburger Steaks

Start by grating a yellow onion into a large mixing bowl—the finer texture will distribute flavor and moisture evenly into every bite. Add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, a splash of heavy cream, and one egg. Work everything together gently with your hands just until combined. Divide into four portions, roll into balls, and flatten them to about 3/4-inch thick. This simple prep ensures your Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce are supremely juicy and never dense or dry.

Step 2: Prep the Aromatics

Chop a second onion, mince those garlic cloves, and chop plenty of fresh dill. By prepping everything now, you’ll transition smoothly from searing steaks to building the creamy sauce without any risk of burning or overcooking your aromatics. It’s a small step that guarantees big, clean flavors in every mouthful.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

Heat a blend of olive oil and butter in a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add your shaped patties and let them sizzle undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden crust and juicy center. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a plate; they’ll finish in the sauce later.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Dill Sauce

Reduce the skillet heat to low, then toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Let them sauté for about two minutes, just until fragrant and tender. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and flour, stirring continuously to make a loose roux—it’s what will give your sauce body. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for a couple of minutes to let everything meld.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Dill

Pour in the remaining cream and add the fresh dill. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for a minute or two until it starts to thicken and becomes irresistibly silky. Return the seared hamburger steaks to the skillet, letting them bathe and finish cooking in the sauce for another 5–6 minutes. This step ensures the flavors meld and every patty soaks up tons of zesty, creamy goodness. Finish with a flourish of extra chopped dill and a shower of black pepper before serving.

How to Serve Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce

Garnishes

For the ultimate finishing touch, shower your Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped dill and a crack of black pepper right before serving. If you want to lean into elegance, add delicate ribbons of lemon zest for a touch of brightness or scatter a few thinly sliced scallions for color contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish is the heart of the plate, but it’s a natural with buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even buttered egg noodles—think of those comforting starches that soak up every bit of that dreamy sauce. For a lighter touch, pair with steamed green beans, crisp cucumber salad, or roasted carrots to play up the freshness of the dill.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have a little fun: stack the hamburger steaks high over a bed of mashed potatoes and spoon the sauce lavishly on top, or slice them and fan out over crisp toast points for a rustic brunch take. Individual mini-skillets or wide bowls let everyone swirl their own sauce, making the meal feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce (lucky you!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days—the flavors only get more delicious as they mingle!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze the cooked steaks and sauce together. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Just be aware that the creamy sauce might separate slightly when thawed, but a quick whisk over low heat brings it back together.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the hamburger steaks and sauce together in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. The microwave works in a pinch—use short bursts and stir often for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! While classic Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce use beef for maximum richness, ground turkey or chicken makes a wonderful, lighter alternative. Just be extra gentle when shaping the patties, as poultry blends are a bit softer.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

Fresh dill brings irresistible brightness to the sauce, but you can substitute with about 2 teaspoons of dried dill in a pinch. The flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, but it’s still delicious and will keep the spirit of the dish alive.

Can I make Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the patties and prepare the sauce one day in advance. Store the uncooked patties tightly wrapped in the fridge, and gently reheat the sauce before adding the steaks to finish cooking. This makes weeknight dinners even faster.

Is there a gluten-free option?

For a gluten-free version, swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or finely ground oats, and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What can I do with leftover sauce?

Don’t let a drop go to waste! Leftover creamy dill sauce is brilliant on roasted veggies, tossed with pasta, or spooned over baked fish or chicken. It’s a versatile treat you’ll find ways to use again and again.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—Hamburger Steaks in Creamy Dill Sauce, bursting with flavor and just waiting for a cozy spot on your dinner table. Whether you’re bringing new life to burger night or craving something that feels both homey and a little special, this recipe always delivers. Take the plunge and treat yourself to a meal you’ll want to make again and again!

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