This hearty Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a simple dish that brings comfort food to your table. With seasoned ground beef, smothered in a rich gravy and topped with delicious mashed potatoes, it’s pure joy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you want to reduce fat, try ground turkey or chicken instead. It’ll change the flavor a bit but can be delicious too!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but you can use crushed crackers or even rolled oats for a gluten-free option. I’ve had great success with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch!
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and flavor. If onions aren’t your thing, try shallots or even green onions for a milder taste.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you prefer a lighter version, opt for low-fat cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms and cream. Mushroom lovers can’t go wrong!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is tasty, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or a sharp cheese for a bolder flavor. Cheese is optional, but I say it adds comfort to the dish!
How Do I Brown the Patties Perfectly?
Browning the patties well gives them a nice flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add a little oil—about a tablespoon should do.
- Shape your patties and make sure they’re not too thick; ½ inch works great!
- When the skillet is hot, place patties in without overcrowding. Brown for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Check for a golden-brown crust before flipping. This adds a ton of flavor!
Remember, the fond (brown bits) left in the skillet adds depth to your gravy. Don’t skip scraping those up before adding broth!
How to Make Amish Hamburger Steak Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hamburger Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, for a total of approximately 45 minutes. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone around the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your dish bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Hamburger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to stir everything until it’s well combined.
3. Shape the Patties:
Now, take the beef mixture and shape it into patties about ½ inch thick. You can make them even or uneven based on your preference—just try to keep them similar in size for even cooking!
4. Brown the Patties:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the patties to the pan and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. After browning, carefully transfer the patties to a greased baking dish.
5. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, there will be some delicious bits left from cooking the patties. Don’t waste those! Scrape them up and add the beef broth along with the cream of mushroom soup. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer—this will make a tasty gravy.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the gravy mixture over the hamburger patties in the baking dish. If you’re a cheese lover, now is the time to sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor.
7. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through, and the sauce is bubbling.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just ensure that you season it well, as turkey can be more bland than beef. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since turkey can cook faster, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Be sure to choose a cream of mushroom soup that’s labeled gluten-free, or you can prepare a homemade version using gluten-free flour to thicken it.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can shape the patties a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to cook, follow the recipe as directed starting with browning them.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist, and heat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.