Irresistible Hamburger Steak Bake: A Home style Amish Delight

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes resonate as deeply as the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake. This classic recipe combines simple ingredients to create a meal that’s both satisfying and reminiscent of family dinners in cozy kitchens. Let’s dive into how you can bring this hearty dish to your table.

Ingredients:

For the Hamburger Steaks:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)

For the Gravy:

• 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups milk

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Patties:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
• Shape the mixture into oval patties, roughly the size of your palm.

2. Sear the Patties:

• Lightly coat each patty with flour, shaking off any excess.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Brown the patties on both sides until they develop a nice crust. They don’t need to be cooked through at this stage.

3. Prepare the Gravy:

• In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.

4. Assemble the Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the browned patties in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Pour the gravy mixture over the patties, ensuring they’re well-covered.

5. Bake:

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken slightly.

6. Serve:

• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
• This bake pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, as these sides can soak up the delicious gravy.

Tips and Variations:

• Cheesy Twist: For a cheesy variation, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the patties before adding the gravy. This adds a rich, creamy layer to the dish.
• Mushroom Addition: If you’re a mushroom lover, add a cup of sliced fresh mushrooms to the gravy mixture for extra texture and flavor.
• Onion Flavor: Sauté a sliced onion and layer it over the patties before pouring the gravy. This imparts a sweet, caramelized onion flavor to the bake.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free crackers to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage and Reheating:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If the gravy has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or beef broth to loosen it up.

A Home style Favorite!

The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. Its straightforward preparation and hearty flavors make it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you’re revisiting a cherished recipe from your past or introducing it to your loved ones for the first time, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

Enjoy the warmth and simplicity of this classic bake, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with the suggested variations. Happy cooking!