Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks are a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe highlights the rich flavors of ground beef and savory gravy, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. The simplicity of preparation allows you to whip up this delicious meal in no time, ensuring that everyone at the table will be satisfied. With its unique blend of seasonings and creamy gravy, this dish stands out as a true comfort food classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, seasonings, and creamy gravy creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Family Favorite: Its hearty nature makes it a hit among both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing ground beef and basic ingredients keeps costs low while still delivering on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Shallow Dish for Dredging
• Large Skillet
• Baking Dish (9×13 inches)
• Whisk

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Shallow Dish for Dredging: Makes coating the patties with flour easy and efficient.
• Large Skillet: Ensures even cooking when searing the patties.
• Baking Dish (9×13 inches): Perfect size for baking multiple patties at once.

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Steaks

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups saltine crackers, crushed (1 sleeve of crackers, roughly)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
• all-purpose flour, for dredging
• kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the Gravy

• 2 (10.75 oz.) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350º F and grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and whole milk until smooth.
2. Stir in the finely chopped parsley. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix the Hamburger Steak Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine ground beef, crushed saltines, whole milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
2. Season liberally with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
3. Using your hands or two forks, mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Form Patties

Gently shape the mixture into even-sized patties that will cook evenly.

Step 5: Dredge the Patties

Place all-purpose flour in a shallow dish:
1. Dredge each patty in the flour until coated well on all sides.

Step 6: Sear the Patties

Heat your large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Once hot, add patties individually to sear on both sides until golden brown.
2. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Note that they will still be undercooked inside.

Step 7: Bake with Gravy

Transfer your browned patties to the greased baking dish:
1. Evenly top them with the prepared gravy mixture.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Bake Until Done

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven:
– Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until cooked through completely. Enjoy your hearty Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks!

How to Serve Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks are not just a hearty meal; they can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these steaks can be paired with several accompaniments to enhance your dining experience.

Classic Comfort

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
• Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf adds texture and absorbs flavors wonderfully.

Fresh and Light

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and green beans provide a refreshing contrast to the savory steaks.
• Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a light dressing adds a crisp, fresh element.

Hearty Complements

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the dish.
• Baked Beans: Rich baked beans make for a filling side that complements the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

To ensure your Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ground beef and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined to keep the patties tender.
• Dredge Well: Make sure each patty is coated evenly in flour for a nice crust when searing.
• Sear Properly: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before placing the patties in for that perfect golden crust.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach an internal temperature of 160º F for safety.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the patties to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

Pairing side dishes with your Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up gravy and adds extra flavor.
2. Coleslaw: This tangy side provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the steaks.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a crispy texture and complement the overall meal beautifully.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy mac and cheese adds comfort food vibes that everyone loves.
5. Cauliflower Mash: For a lighter option, cauliflower mash gives you that creamy texture without all the carbs.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus brings color and nutrients to your plate while adding a subtle smoky flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Many forget to season the beef mixture adequately. Always taste and adjust seasoning before forming patties for maximum flavor.
• Overworking the Mixture: It’s important not to overmix the ground beef. Mix just until combined to ensure tender patties.
• Inadequate Searing: Failing to sear the patties properly can result in a lack of flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the patties.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary; always check doneness with a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 160º F for safety.
• Not Covering with Gravy: Skipping gravy during baking can lead to dry patties. Ensure you cover them well for moist and flavorful results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

• Place cooled patties in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks

• Oven: Preheat to 350º F, place patties in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks?

Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks are savory beef patties mixed with flavorful ingredients, baked in creamy gravy, making them a hearty meal.

Can I use other meats for Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option while still keeping that delicious flavor profile.

How do I customize my Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks?

Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs! Adding diced vegetables or cheese into the beef mixture can also enhance flavor and texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before cooking. Just adjust cooking times accordingly when you’re ready to bake them.

What side dishes pair well with Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks?

These flavorful steaks pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks offer a delightful blend of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. With options for customization, you can make this recipe your own. Don’t hesitate to try it out; it’s sure to become a family favorite!