Japanese Hamburger Steak with Tomato Sauce: Easy Recipe

Indulge in the comforting warmth and savory delight of a Japanese-style hamburger steak, simmered in a rich and tangy tomato sauce. This classic dish, a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine, offers a unique twist on the traditional hamburger, transforming ground beef into tender, juicy patties packed with flavor. Forget dry, crumbly burgers; this recipe guarantees a succulent experience, enhanced by the perfect balance of sweet and savory in the homemade tomato sauce. The simple yet elegant presentation makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating this flavorful masterpiece from scratch. From preparing the perfectly seasoned patties to crafting a vibrant tomato sauce bursting with umami, we'll walk you through every stage, ensuring your hamburger steak is a resounding success. Let's get started and create a truly memorable meal!

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 300g (for a large steak, adjust as needed)
  • Processed cheese
  • Minced garlic
  • Canned diced tomatoes: 1 can
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Oregano
  • Broccoli
  • Sweet potato
  • Carrot

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare and Cook the Hamburger Steak

  • Shape the ground beef into a patty, removing air inside to prevent it from falling apart while cooking.
  • Cook the hamburger steak on medium heat for a couple of minutes per side, until golden brown. Flip it over and cover with a lid, cooking for 7-8 minutes or until fully cooked.
  • Check doneness by pushing with a spatula; it should bounce back if ready. Alternatively, insert a toothpick; translucent juice indicates it's cooked through.
  • Transfer the cooked hamburger steak to a small cast iron skillet or dish.
Shape the ground beef into a patty, removing air inside to prevent it from falling apart while cooking.Cook the hamburger steak on medium heat for a couple of minutes per side, until golden brown. Flip it over and cover with a lid, cooking for 7-8 minutes or until fully cooked.Check doneness by pushing with a spatula; it should bounce back if ready. Alternatively, insert a toothpick; translucent juice indicates it's cooked through.Transfer the cooked hamburger steak to a small cast iron skillet or dish.
Prepare and Cook the Hamburger Steak

Step 2. Make the Tomato Sauce

  • Heat the pan, add minced garlic until fragrant, then add canned diced tomatoes. Cook until reduced by half, seasoning with salt, pepper, and oregano (optional).
Make the tomato sauce: Heat the pan, add minced garlic until fragrant, then add canned diced tomatoes. Cook until reduced by half, seasoning with salt, pepper, and oregano (optional).
Make the Tomato Sauce

Step 3. Combine and Serve

  • Pour the tomato sauce over the hamburger steak.
  • Garnish with broccoli, sweet potato, and carrot.
Pour the tomato sauce over the hamburger steak.Garnish with broccoli, sweet potato, and carrot.
Combine and Serve

Read more: 15-Minute Japanese Curry Udon: Quick, Easy, & Delicious Weeknight Dinner

Tips

  • For a healthier version (teriyaki hamburger steak), sauté mushrooms and add teriyaki sauce diluted with water.
  • Cover the pan with a lid while cooking the tomato sauce to prevent splattering.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 600-800
  • Fat: 30-50g
  • Carbs: 50-70g
  • Protein: 30-40g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of ground beef?

Yes! 80/20 ground beef is ideal for juiciness, but you can use a leaner blend. Just be mindful that leaner beef may be slightly drier.

2. How can I make the tomato sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the sauce while it simmers.


Enjoy your delicious homemade Japanese hamburger steak! The rich tomato sauce perfectly complements the tender, juicy patties, creating a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. We hope you enjoyed this easy recipe and will make it again soon!