Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Recipe By:
Juniper
Updated:
Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a traditional Southern favorite that never fails to impress. This dish features perfectly seared steaks drizzled with a rich and creamy onion gravy, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions. Its comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy weeknight.
  • Rich Flavor: The combination of seared steaks and creamy onion gravy creates a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even over noodles for a delightful meal every time.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or casual dinners, this dish is sure to satisfy both adults and kids alike.
  • Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable sirloin steaks, this recipe provides great value without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Onion Gravy Smothered Steak, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Cast iron skillet: Excellent heat retention allows for perfect steak searing.
  • Tongs: Provides safe handling of hot steaks without piercing the meat.
  • Wooden spoon: Ideal for scraping up browned bits while preserving your skillet’s surface.

Ingredients

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak calls for some straightforward ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.

For the Steak

  • 4 sirloin steaks, (at room temperature, steaks should be 1-inch thick, and between 4 and 6 ounces each)
  • garlic salt, (to taste)
  • fresh cracked black pepper, (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter, (divided)

For the Onion Gravy

  • 2 yellow onions, (sliced)
  • 3 cloves garlic, (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • ½ cup low sodium beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or half and half

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Onion

How to Make Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

Pat dry steaks with paper towels; season steaks with garlic salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

Heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks to the hot skillet and cook until browned and cooked to desired doneness; about 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare steak. DO NOT crowd the skillet; cook two steaks at a time if skillet isn’t big enough. Remove cooked steaks from skillet; set aside and keep covered.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Set skillet back over medium heat and melt remaining butter. Add in sliced onions and season with a pinch of salt; continue to cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until onions are soft and caramelized. Stir frequently.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in minced garlic and season with Italian seasoning; cook for 10 seconds.

Step 5: Create the Gravy Base

Slowly add in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; using a wooden spoon, scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Whisk in heavy cream and cook for one more minute. Reduce heat to medium-low; return steaks to the skillet and continue to cook for two more minutes or until steaks are heated through, and sauce has thickened.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Remove from heat. Garnish with parsley and serve hot for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Mashed Potatoes

  • Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich onion gravy perfectly, soaking up the delicious sauce.

Add Steamed Green Beans

  • Freshly steamed green beans add a pop of color and a crisp texture to balance the meal.

Serve over Rice

  • A bed of fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the gravy, making for a comforting and filling meal.

Top with Chopped Herbs

  • Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top adds brightness and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

How to Perfect Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Creating the perfect Onion Gravy Smothered Steak takes a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing.

  • Choose Quality Steaks: Select fresh sirloin steaks for the best flavor and tenderness. Aim for steaks that are well-marbled for added juiciness.

  • Season Generously: Don’t be shy with garlic salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the steak.

  • Control Cooking Temperature: Searing at medium-high heat ensures a good crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

  • Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time when cooking onions. Allow them to caramelize fully for maximum sweetness and depth of flavor.

Onion

Best Side Dishes for Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is versatile and can be paired with several delicious sides. Consider these options to round out your meal.

  1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds nutrition and flavor.
  2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that complements savory dishes.
  3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover gravy on your plate.
  4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and a contrasting texture to balance the richness of the steak.
  5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter or sour cream make for an excellent side choice.
  6. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creaminess without the extra calories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Onion Gravy Smothered Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

  • Skipping steak seasoning: Failing to season your steaks can result in bland flavor. Always season with garlic salt and fresh cracked black pepper before cooking for maximum taste.
  • Crowding the skillet: Placing too many steaks in the skillet at once can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for a perfect crust.
  • Not allowing onions to caramelize: Rushing the onion cooking process can prevent them from achieving that sweet, rich flavor. Take your time and let them cook until they are soft and golden brown.
  • Using high sodium broth: High sodium beef broth can overpower the dish. Opt for low sodium broth to maintain balance in flavors while still enhancing the gravy.
  • Ignoring resting time for steaks: Cutting into your steaks immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape, leaving them dry. Let them rest covered for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover Onion Gravy Smothered Steak in an airtight container.
  • It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Ensure it has cooled completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

  • Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
  • It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place steak on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
  • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or water, then add steak. Cover and heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Onion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Onion Gravy Smothered Steak?

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a delicious Southern dish featuring juicy sirloin steaks topped with a creamy onion gravy. It’s comforting and packed with flavor!

Can I use other cuts of steak?

Yes! While sirloin works best, you can also use ribeye or flank steak as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness.

How do I make it gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version and ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Onion Gravy Smothered Steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the onion gravy ahead of time and store it separately. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve with freshly cooked steaks.

Final Thoughts

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is not just a flavorful dish; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it by adding mushrooms or using different herbs. Try this recipe for your next dinner; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak

Onion Gravy Smothered Steak is a classic Southern dish that brings the family together with its rich, savory flavors. Each perfectly seared sirloin steak is generously topped with a creamy onion gravy, making it an impressive centerpiece for any dinner table. This delectable meal can be ready in just 30 minutes, allowing you to whip up an unforgettable dinner even on busy weeknights. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the luscious gravy, and watch as this comforting dish becomes a beloved favorite in your home.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 sirloin steaks (1-inch thick)
  • Garlic salt and fresh cracked black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 yellow onions (sliced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • ½ cup low sodium beef broth
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or half and half
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat dry the steaks and season with garlic salt and pepper.
  2. Heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side until cooked to your liking. Remove and keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, add sliced onions, and cook until caramelized (10-12 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
  4. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil.
  5. Whisk in heavy cream, return steaks to skillet, and simmer for another 2 minutes until heated through.
  • Author: Juniper
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy (220g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating mushrooms into the onion mixture. Replace Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version if needed. You can substitute sirloin with ribeye or flank steak; adjust cooking times based on thickness.

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating