Julia Child’s CopyCat Ground Beef Patties Recipe: A Classic French Delight
Step into the culinary world of Julia Child with this delectable CopyCat Ground Beef Patties recipe. Inspired by the legendary chef herself, these juicy beef patties are seasoned to perfection, coated in a golden flour crust, and served with a savory onion and herb sauce. Whether you’re a fan of classic French cuisine or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, these patties are sure to impress. Join us as we pay homage to Julia Child and embark on a culinary journey filled with flavor and nostalgia.
Ingredients:
For the Patties:
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1/8 teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup flour, spread on a plate
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Onions:
- 3/4 cup finely minced yellow onion, plus 2 tablespoons butter
For the Sauce:
- 2-3 tablespoons softened butter
- 1/2 cup beef stock
- 2 tablespoons minced green herbs (such as parsley or chives)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, thyme, softened butter, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into evenly-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Coat Patties in Flour:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Dredge each patty in flour, coating both sides evenly.
- Place the coated patties in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and minced yellow onion. Cook until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the softened butter, beef stock, and minced green herbs to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve:
- Place the cooked beef patties on serving plates and spoon the onion and herb sauce over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, add minced garlic to the onions while they’re cooking. Garlic lovers will appreciate the aromatic addition to the dish.
- Cheese Topping: Make these patties even more indulgent by adding a slice of your favorite cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar) to the top of each patty during the last minute of cooking. Let the cheese melt slightly before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian-friendly version of this recipe. The patties will still be flavorful and satisfying, even without the meat.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace the flour coating with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb alternative. Skip the caramelized onions or use them sparingly to reduce the carb content of the dish. Serve the patties with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad for a keto-friendly meal.
- Low-Carb Variation: Omit the flour coating altogether and simply season the patties with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve the patties with a side of cauliflower mash or steamed broccoli for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Q: Can I make the patties ahead of time and freeze them? A: Yes, you can shape the patties ahead of time and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q: Can I double the recipe to serve a larger crowd? A: Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients to make a larger batch of patties and sauce. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure that everything is cooked evenly.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs for the sauce? A: Yes, you can use dried herbs if fresh herbs are not available. Just keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so you may need to use less.
In conclusion, Julia Child’s CopyCat Ground Beef Patties are a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With their juicy beef patties, golden flour crust, and savory onion and herb sauce, these patties are a true delight for the senses. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, these patties are sure to satisfy. So channel your inner Julia Child, whip up a batch of these delicious patties, and savor every flavorful bite!
