Hearty One-Pan Chopped Steak

Chopped Steak Recipe: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. That’s exactly what this chopped steak recipe delivers—a hearty, flavorful ground beef patty smothered in rich gravy, all prepared in one pan for effortless cleanup. As a staple in American comfort food, this chopped steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, and it’s the ultimate solution for home cooks seeking a reliable, delicious dish. Drawing from Chef Lalybeth’s expertise at cookinwithlalyta.com, our one-pan method minimizes mess while maximizing taste, making it a game-changer for anyone tired of complicated recipes. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this chopped steak recipe will become your go-to for satisfying, soul-warming meals.

The aroma of sizzling onions and savory beef fills the kitchen, promising a symphony of flavors that tantalize the senses. Each bite of these juicy chopped steak patties offers a perfect balance of tender, meaty texture and a velvety gravy that’s rich without being overwhelming. The breadcrumbs add a subtle crunch, while the seasonings infuse every morsel with deep, earthy notes that evoke classic diner favorites. Picture the golden-brown exterior giving way to a moist interior, all coated in a glossy gravy that clings just right—it’s comfort food at its finest, designed to make your mouth water and your family gather around the table.

Why trust this chopped steak recipe from cookinwithlalyta.com? Crafted by Chef Lalybeth, it’s been meticulously tested for foolproof results, ensuring your patties turn out perfectly every time. You’ll discover our Chef’s Secret for achieving that unbeatable gravy consistency, along with tips to elevate flavors and avoid common pitfalls. This version stands out with its one-pan efficiency, making it not just a recipe, but a comprehensive guide that builds your confidence in the kitchen. Stick around to learn ingredient swaps, storage hacks, and answers to your burning questions—let’s make cooking a joy!

Why This Chopped Steak Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret to this chopped steak recipe lies in the one-pan method, which creates a deeply flavorful gravy by building layers of taste right in the skillet. This technique ensures that the beef patties absorb the rich, onion-infused essence of the broth, elevating the dish from simple to spectacular. By frying the patties first and then using the same pan for the roux, we lock in juices and minimize waste, making it a true one-pan wonder for busy home cooks.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture comes from mixing breadcrumbs with the ground beef, which helps retain moisture and prevents the patties from becoming tough. This combination creates a tender, juicy interior with a slight crisp on the outside, all thanks to the egg acting as a binder that evenly distributes flavors.

Foolproof for a Reason: This recipe has been tested multiple times in our kitchen, guaranteeing consistent results even for beginners. With straightforward steps and precise timings, you’ll avoid overcooking or dry patties, making it a reliable choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

Ground Beef: At the heart of this chopped steak recipe, 1 pound of ground beef provides the rich, beefy foundation that makes the dish satisfying and flavorful. Opt for 80% lean ground beef for the best balance of fat and flavor; too lean, and the patties might turn out dry. The fat content helps create a juicy texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. If you’re watching your fat intake, a tested substitution is ground turkey, but add a tablespoon of olive oil to maintain moisture and mimic that classic beef taste.

Breadcrumbs: Half a cup of breadcrumbs acts as a binder and adds a subtle crunch to the patties in this chopped steak recipe. Fresh or panko breadcrumbs work best for a lighter texture, absorbing excess moisture without making the mix gummy. Quality matters here—use homemade or high-quality store-bought to avoid preservatives that could alter the taste. A great substitution is crushed crackers or oats, which provide similar binding properties and can add a nutty undertone if you’re out of breadcrumbs.

Egg: One egg serves as the glue that holds the patties together in this chopped steak recipe, ensuring they don’t fall apart during frying. It also contributes to a tender interior by trapping moisture. Always use fresh, large eggs for the best results; they bind ingredients more effectively. For an egg-free option, try flaxseed mixed with water as a vegan substitute, which mimics the binding effect while keeping the patties intact.

Onion: One chopped onion infuses this chopped steak recipe with a sweet, aromatic depth that complements the beef perfectly. Fresh onions are key for that pungent flavor and moisture release during cooking—yellow onions work best for their balance of sweetness and sharpness. If onions make you tear up, a mild substitution like shallots can offer a similar taste without the intensity, ensuring the recipe remains accessible for all.

Salt and Pepper: These staples season the patties to taste, enhancing the natural flavors in this chopped steak recipe without overwhelming them. Use high-quality sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for a more nuanced taste. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, substitute with herbs like garlic powder or smoked paprika to maintain that savory kick while adjusting for health needs.

Oil for Frying: Two tablespoons of oil are essential for achieving a perfect sear on the patties in this chopped steak recipe. Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for high-heat stability, ensuring even browning without burning. For a healthier twist, olive oil can be substituted, but monitor the heat to prevent a bitter flavor.

Beef Broth: One cup of beef broth forms the base of the luscious gravy, adding depth and richness to this chopped steak recipe. Low-sodium versions allow better seasoning control—opt for homemade if possible for superior flavor. Vegetable broth is a solid substitution for a lighter gravy, especially if you’re adapting for dietary preferences.

Flour: Two tablespoons of flour thicken the gravy, creating that silky consistency that ties the whole dish together in this chopped steak recipe. All-purpose flour works wonders, but for a gluten-free option, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can be used—just whisk it in gradually to avoid lumps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 chopped onion, salt, and pepper to taste. Use your hands to gently mix until everything is evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat—this keeps the patties tender.

Pro Tip: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before forming patties; this helps the flavors meld and makes shaping easier.

Step 2: Forming the Patties

Once mixed, divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, about 1/2-inch thick. Press them firmly to ensure they hold together without cracks.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t make the patties too thick, as they won’t cook evenly; aim for uniform size to prevent the centers from remaining undercooked.

Step 3: Frying the Patties

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and fry for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re browned and cooked through, flipping once for an even sear.

Pro Tip: Use a splatter screen to contain oil splatters, keeping your kitchen cleaner and safer.

Step 4: Making the Roux

Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the remaining drippings and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t let the roux burn by stirring too infrequently; keep it moving to achieve a smooth, golden base.

Step 5: Creating the Gravy

Gradually pour in 1 cup of beef broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps, then simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens into a luscious gravy.

Pro Tip: For a richer gravy, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce at this stage to enhance the beefy notes.

Step 6: Simmering the Patties

Return the patties to the skillet and spoon the gravy over them. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the patties to absorb the gravy.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Over-simmering can make the patties tough, so stick to the 10-minute mark for optimal tenderness.

Serving & Presentation

For an impressive presentation, plate the chopped steak patties on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, letting the gravy pool around them for a visually appealing contrast. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness, elevating this comfort dish to restaurant-quality. Complement it with sides like steamed green beans or a crisp salad to balance the richness, making it ideal for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion meal.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the beef mixture up to 3 days in advance by mixing the ingredients, forming the patties, and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the gravy base ahead and reheat it when ready to cook, saving time on busy evenings.

Storing Leftovers: Store any remaining chopped steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.

The Best Way to Reheat: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to restore moisture, or use the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring the gravy halfway through to keep the patties juicy and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Chopped Steak Recipe

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• Author: Chef Lalybeth
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

A hearty and flavorful ground beef patty served with onions and gravy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil for frying
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons flour

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into patties.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties until browned on both sides.
4. Remove patties and set aside. In the same skillet, add flour and stir to make a roux.
5. Gradually add beef broth, stirring until thickened to make gravy.
6. Return patties to the skillet and simmer in the gravy for 10 minutes.

Notes

Serve with mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Adjust seasoning as needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 25g