Amish Hamburger Steak Bake

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty casserole that brings the family together around the dinner table. The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is one such dish, brimming with flavor and nostalgia. As I gathered my family for this meal, I was reminded of the simplicity and heartiness that defines Amish cooking. Each bite of the savory beef patties smothered in creamy mushroom gravy transports you to a cozy farmhouse kitchen, where love and good food are always in abundance. My family absolutely loved this dish, with the kids asking for seconds and even thirds. It’s the kind of recipe that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart.

Ingredients

• For the Hamburger Steaks:
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups saltine crackers, crumbled
• 1 cup milk (for beef mixture)
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Gravy:
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces)
• 1 cup milk (for gravy)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled saltine crackers, 1 cup of milk, Italian herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Form the Patties: Shape the beef mixture into patties about 1/2 inch thick. This recipe typically yields about 8 patties.
4. Coat the Patties: Lightly coat each patty in flour, ensuring to tap off any excess flour.
5. Brown the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. If needed, add a small amount of oil to the pan. Brown each patty for 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a nice crust. You don’t need to cook them through; they will finish cooking in the oven.
6. Layer in Baking Dish: Place the browned patties in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
7. Make the Gravy: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of milk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the patties in the baking dish.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve hot, directly from the baking dish.
• Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Offer extra gravy on the side for those who like it saucy.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Quality Beef: For the best flavor, use a higher-fat ground beef (like 80/20) to keep the patties juicy.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
3. Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; adding Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and spices to elevate the dish.
5. Monitor Cooking Time: Ovens vary, so check that the patties are cooked through but not overdone.

Recipe Variations

• Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add sliced fresh mushrooms to the beef mixture for a heartier flavor.
• Cheesy Version: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the patties during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute ground beef with a mixture of black beans and lentils, adding breadcrumbs for texture.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who like it spicy.
• Herbed Version: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the beef mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with roasted root vegetables for a comforting fall dinner.
• A side of buttery corn or green beans complements the richness of the dish.
• Consider serving with a glass of red wine, which pairs beautifully with beef.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter version, but it may result in a drier texture.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
   Yes, substitute the saltine crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free flour for coating.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare everything the day before and bake it just before serving.
4. What should I serve with Amish Hamburger Steak Bake?
   Consider serving with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp salad.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the mix?
   Yes, you can incorporate finely diced bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
6. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
   You can use homemade mushroom gravy or a different cream soup, such as cream of chicken.
7. How do I ensure my patties don’t fall apart?
   Make sure to add enough binder (like crushed crackers) and avoid overworking the meat.
8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, but avoid overheating to keep the patties juicy.
9. Can I double this recipe?
   Yes, just ensure you have a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as necessary.
10. What’s a good wine pairing?
    A nice Cabernet Sauvignon or a medium-bodied red wine pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.

Conclusion

The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a heartwarming recipe that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With its rich mushroom gravy and tender beef patties, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your household. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying it on a cozy night in, this dish delivers satisfaction and warmth, making it a timeless favorite.

Print