Creamed hamburger gravy is the ultimate old-school comfort food. It’s simple, hearty, and budget-friendly. This classic dish starts with seasoned ground beef in a creamy gravy and gets spooned generously over toasted bread. It’s quick enough for weeknights and just the kind of stick-to-your-ribs meal I crave when the weather turns chilly.

My husband grew up eating creamed chipped beef on toast, which we consider traditional SOS, but some people make it with ground beef depending on the region or branch of military. This creamed hamburger gravy version is a favorite in our kitchen too, because it’s just as cozy but uses everyday pantry ingredients. It reminds me of the old-fashioned recipes our parents and grandparents relied on when they needed something filling, fast, and affordable. 

Helpful Tips & Variations

• Brown the beef well. Take your time when browning the meat. Letting it develop a little color adds depth and richness to the gravy that you just can’t get if you rush this step.
• Add the milk slowly. Pour the milk in gradually while whisking. This helps the flour blend in smoothly and keeps the gravy silky without any lumps.
• Adjust the thickness. Gravy too thick? Stir in a splash of extra milk until it loosens up. Too thin? Let it simmer a few minutes longer, and it will naturally thicken.
• Make it your own. Try swapping the ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even ground chicken for a different flavor. You can also stir in mushrooms or peas for extra texture and variety.

How to Make Creamed Hamburger Gravy Step by Step

• Gather the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients together. Set a large 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

• Brown the beef: Add 1 lb. lean ground beef and 1 small diced yellow onion to the skillet. Cook, breaking the beef into tiny crumbles, until no pink remains and the onion has softened. Drain off all the grease. Season with 1 tsp coarse salt, 1 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir to coat.

• Add the flour: Sprinkle in 6 tbsp flour and stir until no white streaks remain.

• Add the soup: Stir in one 10.5-oz can of condensed cream of mushroom soup until fully combined.

• Slowly stir in the milk: Slowly pour in 2 cups whole milk, a little at a time, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens. This can take a few minutes. If the gravy becomes too thick, whisk in up to 1 additional cup of milk to loosen it.

• Taste and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed. Serve the gravy spooned over toasted white sandwich bread and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for more flavor and texture.
• Seasonings: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce adds depth, while fresh herbs like thyme or parsley brighten it up.
• Cheese: Sprinkle in a handful of shredded cheddar or parmesan for a creamier, richer gravy.
• Heat: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne if you like a little spice.
• Different meats: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy hamburger gravy is traditionally served spooned over toasted white bread, but it’s just as delicious ladled onto warm biscuits, a bed of rice, or fluffy mashed potatoes. For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad to balance the richness. If you like a little kick, drizzle on some hot sauce before digging in, and don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

How to Store Leftovers

• Fridge. Store any leftover creamed hamburger gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture. 
• Freezer. If you’d like to freeze it, let the gravy cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

More Hearty Comfort Food Recipes

• Italian Meatballs
• 3 Packet Crockpot Chicken
• Bangers and Mash
• Baked Risotto

I hope you love this delicious and easy recipe – be sure to give it a review below! Also don’t forget to follow Belly Full on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube!