Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
When I first stumbled upon the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake, I was captivated by its rustic charm and hearty appeal. This dish is a cozy blend of seasoned ground beef and crispy saltine crackers, topped with a creamy mushroom gravy that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this bake delivers comfort food without the fuss. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll understand why it has a special place in many hearts.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to embrace the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake. It’s not only budget-friendly, using just a few simple ingredients, but it also caters to everyone’s favorite comfort food cravings. The combination of beef and saltine crackers creates a satisfying texture, while the creamy mushroom soup ties everything together in a delicious embrace.
This recipe is ideal for those hectic weekdays when time is short but your family still needs a hearty meal. Besides, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table—because who can resist the allure of hamburger steaks topped with rich gravy?
“This dish takes me back to my childhood! It’s easy to make and tastes just like my grandmother used to prepare. A true comfort food classic!” – Emily, Home Cook Enthusiast
The cooking process explained
Making the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is as straightforward as it is satisfying. First, we’ll combine the savory ingredients for the beef patties, shape them into delightful rounds, and quickly brown them in a skillet. Next, we’ll assemble everything in a baking dish, finish it off with a creamy sauce, and let the oven work its magic.
Here are the essentials you’ll need:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this savory dish:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups saltine crackers, crumbled
- 1 cup milk (for the beef mixture)
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Dash cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk (for gravy)
Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or pork if you’re looking for a lighter option!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled saltine crackers, 1 cup milk, Italian herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, dash of cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Coat each patty with all-purpose flour.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown each steak for 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside in the baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the condensed cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of milk together. Pour this mixture over the browned steaks.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with a few simple accompaniments. Consider pairing it with fluffy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh side salad. For a comforting presentation, serve the steak bake directly from the oven in your greased dish with freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Ensure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Consider using fresh herbs instead of dried for a flavor boost.
- Don’t skip the browning step; it adds depth to the flavor.
- If you love cheese, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for a melty topping.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the beef mixture for an extra layer of taste.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or top it with sliced pickled jalapeños before serving.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Amish Hamburger Steak Bake?
The preparation and cooking time combined typically takes about 1 hour, making it a quick and comforting dinner option for busy nights.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and place them in the baking dish the night before. Just add the mushroom soup and milk mixture before baking.
What can I substitute for saltine crackers?
If you want a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
With its down-home flavor and easy preparation, the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire! Happy cooking!
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled saltine crackers, 1 cup milk, Italian herbs, onion powder, garlic powder, dash of cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Coat each patty with all-purpose flour.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown each steak for 2-3 minutes per side. Set aside in the baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the condensed cream of mushroom soup and 1 cup of milk together. Pour this mixture over the browned steaks.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
