Schoolhouse Hamburger Gravy

There’s something deeply comforting and nostalgic about recipes that remind us of simpler times, especially those that were staples in school cafeterias or at the family dinner table. The Schoolhouse Hamburger Gravy is one such recipe, evoking memories of hearty meals that brought warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. This dish, with its rich, savory gravy poured over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or freshly baked biscuits, represents the epitome of comfort food. It’s a reminder of the days when meals were not just about eating but about gathering and sharing moments.

The beauty of the Schoolhouse Hamburger Gravy lies in its simplicity and the ease with which it can be prepared, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. It’s a versatile recipe that appeals to both children and adults alike, thanks to its rich blend of flavors and the heartiness of ground beef smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce. The ingredients are pantry staples in many households, which means you can whip up this comforting dish without needing a special trip to the grocery store.

Preparing this gravy not only fills the kitchen with inviting aromas but also offers an opportunity to add personal touches to a time-honored recipe. Whether served over a mountain of mashed potatoes, spooned over warm biscuits, or even as a unique topping for a homemade pizza, Schoolhouse Hamburger Gravy adapts to your family’s taste and preferences. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a nod to the past, and a simple pleasure that stands the test of time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef (around 85% lean) will give you a good balance of flavor without too much fat. However, you can choose a fattier blend if you prefer a richer gravy.
• ½ cup chopped white onion: Finely chopping the onion ensures it will cook evenly and meld into the sauce, providing a subtle sweetness and depth.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This acts as a thickener for the gravy. Make sure to cook the flour for a couple of minutes to remove the raw taste.
• 1 tablespoon beef flavor bouillon: This intensifies the meaty flavor of the gravy. You can use a cube or powdered bouillon; just ensure it’s well dissolved.
• 2 tablespoons steak sauce: This adds a tangy, slightly sweet depth. You can experiment with different brands to find your preferred taste.
• 2 cups milk: Whole milk will give the gravy a rich, creamy texture, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter version.

Preparation:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it starts to brown, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
2. Add the Onion: Once the beef is about halfway cooked, add the chopped onion. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent. If there’s a lot of excess fat, carefully drain it off, leaving a little behind for flavor.
3. Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked beef and onions. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes. This cooks the raw flavor out of the flour and helps to thicken the gravy.
4. Flavor Building: Stir in the beef bouillon and steak sauce, mixing well to ensure the bouillon is fully dissolved and the steak sauce is evenly distributed.
5. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while stirring constantly. This helps to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring until all the milk is incorporated.
6. Simmer to Thicken: Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the gravy to simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. If the gravy thickens too much, you can thin it with a little more milk.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Serve the gravy warm over your choice of side dish.

Tips:

• For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder for additional depth of flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: This gravy is traditionally served over mashed potatoes or biscuits, but it’s also great over rice or toast.
• Storing and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk if the gravy has thickened too much.

Enjoy your homemade Schoolhouse Hamburger Gravy with your favorite comfort food sides for a satisfying and delicious meal!