Seasoned ground beef patties served with a fresh mushroom cream sauce.

Beef Patties with Mushroom Sauce

1 pound lean ground beef

1/4 cup dry bread crumbs

2 tablespoons milk

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon salt - divided use

Freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced

1 teaspoon dried basil

5 tablespoons butter - divided use

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 cup half-and-half or light cream

1/2 cup water

Dash of Tabasco sauce

1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons chopped green onions

1. Combine beef, crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper and garlic powder; mix well. Shape into 4 oval patties. In large heavy skillet, cook to desired doneness. Remove to serving platter and keep warm.
2. Drain remaining grease from skillet and melt 2 tablespoons butter; add the mushrooms and basil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add remaining butter, when melted stir in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually stir in cream, water, Tabasco sauce and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until thickened, about 2 minutes. Add more water, if needed, to make a thinner sauce.
3. Spoon sauce over patties, sprinkle with cheese and onions. Serve.

Makes 4 servings.