When it comes to comfort food that warms both the heart and the stomach, Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is at the top of the list. This rich, savory, and wholesome dish is rooted in traditional Amish cooking, which focuses on simple, hearty ingredients that bring people together.
Imagine juicy, well-seasoned hamburger steaks, nestled in a bed of sliced potatoes and smothered in a homemade, velvety gravy. Baked to perfection, this dish delivers tender beef, golden roasted potatoes, and a deep, rich flavor that’s truly satisfying. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or looking for a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare, Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is guaranteed to be a favorite.
Why Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a Must-Try Recipe
1. A Classic Dish with Simple Ingredients
This recipe proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make an outstanding meal. With ground beef, potatoes, onions, and a homemade gravy, you get an old-fashioned dish with timeless appeal.
2. Perfect for Family Dinners
If you need a meal that feeds a crowd and pleases even the pickiest eaters, this recipe is ideal. The savory beef patties and creamy gravy create a comforting, home-cooked meal that’s always a hit.
3. A One-Pan Meal for Easy Cleanup
Who doesn’t love a one-dish recipe that minimizes cleanup? Everything is layered and baked in a single dish, making preparation and serving effortless.
4. Full of Rich, Savory Flavors
The homemade beef gravy soaks into the potatoes and hamburger steaks, creating a deep, savory flavor that’s better than any store-bought meal.
5. A Hearty and Satisfying Meal
With its protein-rich beef, starchy potatoes, and creamy sauce, this dish is a well-balanced meal that leaves you feeling full and satisfied.
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend) – Provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
- 1 egg – Helps bind the meat together.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs – Adds structure and texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Provides a mild spice.
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Creates a rich base for the gravy.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth – Forms the base of the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth.
- ½ teaspoon thyme (optional) – Provides a hint of earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Adjusts seasoning to preference.
For the Baking Layer:
- 3 large potatoes, sliced into rounds – Absorbs the rich flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps roast the potatoes evenly.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
- Mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Shape into four oval-shaped patties.
Step 3: Brown the Steaks
- Sear patties in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a baking dish.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic in butter.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add beef broth, whisking to remove lumps.
- Simmer until thickened, then season with Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Arrange sliced potatoes around the hamburger steaks.
- Drizzle olive oil, salt, and pepper over potatoes.
- Pour gravy over everything, covering evenly.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 540mg
Tips for Making the Best Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
1. Choose the Right Ground Beef
For the juiciest, most flavorful steaks, use 80/20 ground beef. The extra fat keeps the patties moist and tender during baking. If using leaner beef (90/10 or 93/7), consider adding a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent dryness.
2. Don’t Overmix the Hamburger Steak Mixture
When combining the ground beef, egg, and breadcrumbs, mix just until combined. Overmixing makes the patties tough instead of tender.
3. Brown the Steaks for Maximum Flavor
Before baking, searing the patties in a hot skillet for a few minutes locks in juices and creates a delicious crust that enhances the overall flavor.
4. Slice the Potatoes Evenly
To ensure that the potatoes cook at the same rate, slice them uniformly. If the slices are too thick, they may remain undercooked, while thinner slices may overcook.
5. Make a Homemade Gravy for the Best Taste
While some recipes use canned gravy or soup, making gravy from scratch with butter, flour, and beef broth gives this dish a deeper, more homemade flavor.
6. Let It Rest Before Serving
Once the bake is out of the oven, let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the gravy to thicken slightly and makes the dish easier to portion.
Delicious Variations to Try
1. Mushroom and Onion Amish Steak Bake
For a more earthy, umami-rich version, add sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions to the gravy. This adds depth and complexity to the dish.
2. Spicy Amish Hamburger Bake
If you like a bit of heat, mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the beef mixture. You can also add diced jalapeños to the potatoes for an extra kick.
3. Cheesy Amish Steak Bake
A few minutes before the dish is finished baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top. The cheese melts into the potatoes, making the dish even more indulgent.
4. Herb-Infused Gravy
For a more aromatic touch, add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the gravy. These herbs complement the richness of the beef and add a burst of freshness.
5. Low-Carb Version
If you want a lower-carb alternative, swap the potatoes for cauliflower slices or zucchini rounds. This keeps the dish hearty and flavorful without the extra starch.
What to Serve with Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
This dish is already a well-balanced meal, but you can pair it with additional sides for even more variety. Here are some great options:
1. Fresh Green Salad
A simple salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
2. Buttered Corn or Green Beans
A side of steamed or roasted green beans or buttered corn adds a pop of color and freshness.
3. Buttermilk Biscuits or Dinner Rolls
Warm biscuits or rolls are perfect for sopping up the rich gravy.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts or Asparagus
For a more nutritious side, serve the bake with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
5. Pickled Vegetables
The acidity of pickled beets, cucumbers, or sauerkraut helps balance the richness of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, then bake as directed.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! Freeze unbaked or baked Amish Hamburger Steak Bake for up to 2 months. If freezing unbaked, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
4. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute, but consider adding a little olive oil to keep it moist.
5. How Do I Reheat This Dish?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or microwave individual portions in short intervals to prevent drying out.
6. Can I Use a Different Type of Potato?
Yes! Sweet potatoes, Yukon golds, or red potatoes all work well in this recipe.
Conclusion: A Comforting, Timeless Dish for Every Occasion
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience. With its juicy, flavorful hamburger steaks, creamy gravy, and tender potatoes, this dish is pure home-cooked goodness.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a potluck gathering, this bake will always satisfy. The one-pan convenience, simple ingredients, and deep, rich flavors make it a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
So next time you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish, grab your ingredients and give this Amish classic a try. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will thank you!
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Amish Hamburger Steak Bake – Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 7-9 servings
Description
Experience the comforting flavors of the Amish countryside with this Amish Hamburger Steak Bake. Juicy ground beef patties are seasoned to perfection, seared until golden, and then baked in a rich, creamy mushroom gravy. Paired with tender potatoes and onions, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- Ground beef
- Cracker crumbs (buttery crackers or saltine crackers)
- Milk
- Dried Italian seasoning
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper (optional)
- Flour (for dusting steaks)
For the Gravy:
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cracker crumbs, milk, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
- Shape the mixture into evenly sized hamburger steaks.
- Sear the Steaks:
- Heat a drizzle of cooking oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Lightly dust each steak with flour on both sides.
- Place the steaks in the hot skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides. Note: The steaks will not be fully cooked at this stage.
- Prepare the Gravy:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the browned hamburger steaks into a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the steaks, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. For a slightly thicker gravy, uncover the dish during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the hamburger steaks over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful gravy.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Variations: For added flavor, consider seasoning the flour used for dusting with additional garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper. You can also sprinkle parsley flakes over the finished dish for a touch of color
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
