Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a classic comfort food that’s both hearty and budget-friendly. Made from a mixture of ground beef, milk, cracker crumbs, and seasonings, this dish is prepared by shaping the beef into a loaf, refrigerating it overnight, and then slicing and frying it. The cooked patties are baked in a rich mushroom gravy, creating a savory and satisfying meal. Serve it over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal.
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a beloved recipe rooted in Amish tradition, known for its simplicity and robust flavors. This dish is made with basic ingredients like ground beef, milk, cracker crumbs, and seasonings, making it both economical and satisfying. The creamy mushroom gravy adds a delicious, comforting element that elevates the overall taste.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Beef: 1 lb, raw, serves as the main protein
- Milk: 1 cup, for binding the ingredients
- Cracker Crumbs: 1 cup, finely crushed, adds texture
- Salt: 1 tsp, for seasoning
- Black Pepper: ¼ tsp, freshly ground
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped, adds flavor
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.5 oz) can, for the gravy
- Water or Broth: 1 (10.5 oz) can, to dilute the gravy
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, milk, cracker crumbs, salt, pepper, and onion until well mixed.
- Step 2:
- Shape the beef mixture into a loaf. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Step 3:
- Slice the chilled loaf into ½-inch thick slices or patties. Lightly dredge in flour.
- Step 4:
- In a skillet, pan-fry slices over medium-high heat until browned on both sides.
- Step 5:
- In a bowl, whisk together the mushroom soup and water/broth.
- Step 6:
- Place the browned slices in a baking dish and pour the mushroom gravy over them.
- Step 7:
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until hot and thickened.
- Step 8:
- Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, smothered in gravy.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for the best flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Helpful Notes
- Using broth instead of water in the gravy enhances the overall flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cracker crumbs and soup.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip: Add a pinch of thyme to the gravy for an herbal twist.
Enhancing the Classic Amish Steak Recipe
To make this dish even more flavorful, try adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture or topping the baked steak with caramelized onions for an added depth of flavor.
Preparing Amish Poor Man’s Steak for Large Gatherings
This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate larger gatherings, making it a great choice for family events or potlucks.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mushrooms in the gravy?
Yes, sauté fresh mushrooms and add them to the gravy for a richer texture and taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can use plant-based ground meat and mushroom-based gravy for a vegetarian variation.
Can I freeze Amish Poor Man’s Steak?
Yes, you can freeze cooked patties and gravy separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How can I make it spicier?
Adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture will provide a spicier kick.
Summary
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a delightful dish that embodies the simplicity and heartiness of Amish cooking. The recipe involves forming a seasoned ground beef mixture into a loaf, allowing it to set overnight for easier slicing. These slices are pan-fried and then baked in a savory mushroom gravy, ensuring tender meat with a creamy, flavorful coating. The dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, making it a filling and comforting meal perfect for colder days or family gatherings. This recipe is easy to make and provides a nostalgic taste of home-cooked goodness.