Juicy Japanese Hamburger Steak Recipe (Hambagu)
Juicy Japanese-style hamburger steak with rich demi-glace sauce—perfectly pan-seared, tender, and flavorful. A hearty meal for lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Information (per serving)

Ingredients
For the Patty:
- 250g (9 oz) ground beef
- 100g (3.5 oz) ground pork
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp tonkatsu or soy sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
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Sauté onions: In a pan, sauté chopped onions in a bit of oil until translucent. Let cool slightly.
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Make the patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef, pork, sautéed onions, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well by hand until sticky. Shape into 2 oval patties.
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Cook the patties: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add patties and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side, until browned. Cover and cook on low heat for another 5–6 minutes until cooked through.
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Make the sauce: In the same pan, combine ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy or tonkatsu sauce, butter, and water. Simmer until slightly thickened.
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Serve: Plate the patties and spoon the sauce over. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Mixing beef and pork gives better texture and flavor
- Let patties rest before cooking to help them hold shape
- Add grated garlic or nutmeg for extra aroma
- Leftover patties make great sandwiches or bento fillers
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this juicy japanese hamburger steak recipe (hambagu) take to make?
This juicy japanese hamburger steak recipe (hambagu) takes 20 min to prepare and 15 min to cook, for a total time of 35 min.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 2 servings.
What skill level is required for this recipe?
This recipe is rated as Intermediate level.
Can I make substitutions in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have available. Common substitutions work well in most cases.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving.