Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz (225g) cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup / 30g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) dry red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon - optional, but adds depth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix until just combined. Form into 4 oval-shaped patties.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Remove patties from the skillet and set aside. They don't need to be fully cooked at this point.
- Add butter to the same skillet. Sauté mushrooms and shallot until softened and lightly browned. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the seared patties to the skillet with the gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy has thickened. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.