Amish Hamburger Steak Bake Recipe

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty casserole, especially one that reminds me of home-cooked meals from my childhood. The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of comfort food: rich, flavorful, and satisfying. My family absolutely adores this recipe, often requesting it for special occasions or cozy family dinners. The combination of savory hamburger patties, creamy gravy, and layers of tender potatoes makes for a delightful meal that brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, which is always a bonus for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups milk, divided
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preparing the Patties

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Patties: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed. Form the beef mixture into six patties. This will create flavorful beef rounds that layer beautifully in the bake.
3. Brown the Patties: In a skillet over medium heat, brown each patty on both sides. It’s important not to cook them all the way through, as they will finish cooking in the oven. Set the browned patties aside temporarily.

Making the Gravy

4. Create the Gravy: Using the same skillet, make the creamy gravy by whisking together 1 cup of milk with the flour until smooth. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to form a rich, creamy gravy. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Bake

5. Layer the Ingredients: In the greased baking dish, start by placing half of the thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom. Follow this with a layer of half of the sliced onions. Next, arrange the browned hamburger patties over the layer of potatoes and onions. Top the patties with the remaining potato and onion slices, creating a layered effect.
6. Add the Gravy: Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the entire dish, ensuring that all layers are well covered.

Baking and Serving

7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil to lock in moisture, then place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour to allow the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld together.
8. Finish Baking: After an hour, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is slightly golden.
9. Serve: Once done, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 6
• Calories per serving: About 430 kcal

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 1 hour

How to Serve

• Serve hot directly from the oven for a comforting family meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
• Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Offer hot sauce or additional gravy on the side for those who enjoy extra flavor.
• Serve with warm bread or rolls for dipping in the gravy.

Additional Tips

1. Uniform Slices: When slicing potatoes and onions, try to keep the thickness uniform for even cooking.
2. Ground Beef Alternatives: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
3. Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Check for Doneness: Always test the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender before serving.
5. Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Version: Add a layer of shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) between the layers of potatoes for a cheesier bake.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the ground beef for added heat.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the gravy for enhanced flavor.
• Casserole Style: Turn this into a more traditional casserole by adding a breadcrumb topping before the final bake for extra crunch.
• Mushroom Gravy: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the gravy for an earthy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake.
• Complement the meal with steamed green beans or glazed carrots for a touch of color and nutrition.
• Enjoy with a hearty slice of garlic bread to soak up the gravy.
• Pair with a glass of red wine or a light beer for a cozy dinner experience.
• Consider serving fruit salad or a light dessert afterward to finish off the meal on a refreshing note.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
   Yes, frozen hash browns or diced potatoes can be used, but adjust cooking times as needed.
2. How do I know when the dish is done?
   The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
3. Can I add other meats?
   Yes, you can mix in cooked bacon or sausage for added flavor.
4. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for the gravy and check that your broth is also gluten-free.
5. What type of ground beef should I use?
   A mixture of ground beef (80/20) is ideal for balance in flavor and moisture.
6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the layers and store them separately until you’re ready to bake.
7. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   Yes, assemble the layers in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
8. What can I do with leftovers?
   Leftovers can be reheated or transformed into a new dish, like a shepherd’s pie.
9. Is it necessary to brown the patties?
   Browning adds flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
10. Can I use dairy alternatives?
    Yes, almond milk or soy milk can replace regular milk, and non-dairy butter can be used for the glaze.

Conclusion

Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a delightful comfort food that combines the best of hearty ingredients into a single, satisfying dish. It’s simple to make, perfect for family dinners, and ideal for meal prep or gatherings. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy gravy, and tender potatoes makes for a mouthwatering experience that your family will love. With the ability to customize and adapt the recipe, it’s sure to become a cherished part of your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with this delicious Amish classic!

Print