Why Make This Recipe
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s simple to make, using affordable ingredients that fill up hungry bellies. This recipe combines ground beef with a few pantry staples, creating flavorful patties smothered in rich gravy. It’s a taste of home cooking that reminds many of a cozy meal shared with loved ones.
How to Make Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup cracker crumbs (saltines or Ritz)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cracker crumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into rectangular or oval patties, about 1 inch thick. Place the patties on a baking sheet or tray. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until browned. Transfer the patties to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, onion powder, and garlic powder. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the gravy evenly over the seared patties in the baking dish. Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the gravy thicken further.
- Serve the Amish Poor Man’s Steak hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
How to Serve Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is best served hot. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the tasty gravy. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Once it has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the patties with gravy. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Amish Poor Man’s Steak
- Ensure the patties are chilled before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor.
- If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the gravy.
Variation
For a different flavor, you can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with any other milk like skim or almond milk, but it may affect the creaminess of the gravy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake them.
What can I serve with Amish Poor Man’s Steak?
Great sides include mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or steamed vegetables. You can choose your favorite side dish to balance the meal.
Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Ingredients
For the patties
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup cracker crumbs (saltines or Ritz)
- 1 cup whole milk Can substitute with other types of milk.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cracker crumbs, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into rectangular or oval patties, about 1 inch thick. Place the patties on a baking sheet or tray. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Cooking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until browned. Transfer the patties to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, onion powder, and garlic powder. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the gravy evenly over the seared patties in the baking dish. Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the gravy thicken further.