Amish Poor Man’s Steak is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm, nostalgic dish that brings comfort straight from the heart of Amish kitchens. This humble yet flavorful dinner uses simple ingredients like ground beef, crackers, and mushroom soup to create a savory meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a satisfying, budget-friendly dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted veggies. Let’s walk through the steps of making this classic comfort food, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients for Amish Poor Man’s Steak
For the Steak Patties
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers or plain breadcrumbs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Gravy
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups beef broth
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions for Amish Poor Man’s Steak
Mix and Shape the Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs), milk, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything with your hands or a spoon until the mixture is well blended but not overworked.
Form the mixture into 8 to 10 oval-shaped patties, about ½-inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This rest time helps firm up the patties so they don’t fall apart while browning.
Brown the Patties
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, brown the patties for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Don’t cook them all the way through—just get a golden-brown crust. This adds flavor and helps the patties hold their structure.
Prepare the Gravy
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth. This creates a rich, creamy gravy that will cook into the meat while baking.
Assemble and Bake
Transfer the browned patties into a 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Pour the prepared mushroom gravy evenly over the patties, making sure they are well covered.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The patties should be fully cooked and tender, and the gravy will thicken slightly during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is best enjoyed with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes (for soaking up all that delicious gravy)
- Buttered egg noodles
- Roasted carrots, green beans, or peas
- A side salad for a fresh, crisp contrast
This dish also makes fantastic leftovers, as the flavors deepen overnight.
Tips for Best Results
- Chill before browning: Don’t skip the refrigeration step. It helps the patties stay firm when browning and baking.
- Use lean ground beef: Go for 85% lean to reduce excess grease while keeping flavor and juiciness.
- Brown for flavor: Even though the patties bake fully in the oven, that initial sear gives them a much deeper flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd: If your skillet is small, brown the patties in batches to ensure even browning.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Cheesy Twist
Mix ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the meat mixture for a cheesier bite.
Extra Mushrooms
Stir in 1 cup of sliced fresh mushrooms into the gravy before pouring it over the patties.
Herb Lovers
Add a teaspoon of dried parsley, thyme, or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture for a more aromatic result.
Spicy Option
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy for a subtle kick.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free mushroom soup to make this dish completely gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Amish Poor Man’s Steak in advance?
Absolutely. You can prepare both the patties and the gravy a day ahead. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble them just before baking. You can also pre-brown the patties and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts for quick reheating.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! After baking, let the dish cool completely. Transfer the patties with gravy to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Can I use a different type of meat?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just note that these leaner meats might need an extra splash of milk or a tablespoon of oil to maintain moisture.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the patties, place them in the slow cooker with the gravy on top. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This is a great option if you want to prep it in the morning and come home to a warm meal.
Conclusion
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a perfect example of how simple, humble ingredients can come together to create a deeply satisfying and hearty meal. With seasoned beef patties bathed in creamy mushroom gravy, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for something warm and filling after a long day, this recipe offers a reliable go-to that’s rich in flavor and tradition. Plus, with make-ahead and freezer options, it’s incredibly practical for busy households.