Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a comforting, hearty dish made with seasoned ground beef patties that are baked in a rich, flavorful gravy. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re looking for an easy, no-fuss meal. The tender beef steaks combined with the creamy gravy make for an incredibly satisfying dish that pairs well with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Steak Patties
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltine crackers (or breadcrumbs), milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined but do not overmix, as it can make the patties tough.
Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to help the patties firm up.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Brown the Patties
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Brown the steak patties on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage—just get a nice crust on the outside. Transfer the browned patties to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Slowly add the beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Let the gravy simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Bake the Steaks
Pour the gravy over the steak patties in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Amish Poor Man’s Steak hot with the gravy spooned over the top. Pair with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or your favorite vegetable side.
Cook Notes
- Refrigerating the Patties: Letting the patties chill for an hour before cooking helps them hold their shape better during browning and baking.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, you can add an extra splash of beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Crushed Crackers: You can substitute saltine crackers with breadcrumbs if preferred, but the saltines add a traditional flavor to the dish.
Variations
1. Mushroom Gravy
Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms to the skillet after browning the patties. Sauté for 3-4 minutes before adding the butter and flour to make the gravy.
2. Onion Gravy
Add 1 medium onion, thinly sliced to the skillet and sauté until softened before making the gravy for extra depth of flavor.
3. Spicy Poor Man’s Steak
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for a bit of heat. You can also add a splash of hot sauce to the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the steaks over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Egg Noodles: Pair with buttered egg noodles for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, peas, or carrots for a balanced meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Amish Poor Man’s Steak Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and refrigerate them overnight. You can also make the entire dish ahead of time, refrigerate it, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Amish Poor Man’s Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Poor Man’s Steak?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties or the fully cooked dish. Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating.
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a deliciously comforting dish that’s easy to make and budget-friendly. With tender beef patties baked in a rich gravy, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, it’s a satisfying dish that delivers classic flavors and comforting warmth. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner that everyone will love!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
