Introduction
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is one of those beloved heartland dishes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Traditionally made from seasoned ground beef shaped into thick patties and slow-baked in a simple gravy, this recipe delivers hearty, home-style flavor with minimal ingredients. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or anytime you crave old-fashioned comfort food.
Below is a unique, easy-to-follow recipe that brings the warmth of Amish cooking straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Steak Patties:
2 lbs ground beef
1 cup crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
1 cup milk
1 small onion, finely minced
1 egg
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
For the Gravy:
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Mix the Meat:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, minced onion, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until everything is just combined—avoid overworking the meat.
Shape the Patties:
Form the mixture into thick oval patties, about ¾–1 inch thick. Traditional Amish versions resemble miniature loaves more than flat burgers.
Brown the Patties (Optional but Recommended):
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Brown each patty for 1–2 minutes per side. This adds extra flavor but is not required.
Prepare the Gravy:
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme until smooth.
Bake:
Place the patties in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the gravy mixture over the top.
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes, or until cooked through and tender.
Serve:
Spoon the savory gravy over the patties and enjoy with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or vegetables.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Poor Man’s Steak pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a simple green bean casserole. For a more rustic meal, serve with warm homemade bread.
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
This dish freezes very well. Store cooked patties and gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Variations
