Looking for a hearty and comforting meal? The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is the perfect solution. This simple yet flavorful dish features juicy hamburger patties smothered in a creamy, savory gravy, all baked together in one pan. Inspired by traditional Amish cooking, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday meal, this Amish hamburger steak bake will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
There are many reasons to fall in love with this easy-to-make Amish Hamburger Steak Bake:
• Simple and Affordable Ingredients
This dish uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge, making it an affordable option for any home cook. The ground beef, basic seasonings, and canned mushroom soup create a rich, comforting flavor that feels like a homemade masterpiece.
• Rich and Flavorful Gravy
Unlike the typical pan-fried hamburger steaks, this bake features a homemade mushroom gravy that infuses the meat with deep flavors. The gravy is made from creamy soup and whole milk, adding a luxurious texture to the dish.
• One-Pan Wonder
With everything baked in a single dish, cleanup is a breeze. You won’t need to worry about washing multiple pans—this dish is as simple to prepare as it is to clean up.
• Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal in advance for a busy week, this casserole is an ideal choice. You can easily customize it with sides like mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice, making it a versatile dish for any meal.
• Inspired by Amish Tradition
Amish recipes have stood the test of time because they focus on wholesome ingredients and cooking methods that preserve the flavors of the food. This hamburger steak bake follows that tradition, offering a taste of comfort that’s been passed down through generations.
Ingredients for Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
This recipe keeps things simple with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to make this savory dish:
Main Ingredients
• Ground Beef – The foundation of this dish, ground beef creates juicy, flavorful patties that are the centerpiece of the bake. You can use lean ground beef for a lighter version, or go for a higher-fat content for richer flavor.
• Saltine Crackers – Crushed saltines act as a binder to hold the patties together while adding a slight crunch to the texture. One sleeve of saltines (about 1 ½ cups) is typically all you need.
• Whole Milk – Whole milk helps to keep the hamburger patties moist and tender. It also helps to thin out the gravy to create a smooth consistency.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme that adds depth to the flavor of the meat.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These classic seasonings boost the savory taste of the patties and the gravy.
• Cayenne Pepper – A pinch of cayenne adds a mild heat, but you can adjust the amount to your taste preference.
• All-Purpose Flour – Used for dredging the patties to create a golden-brown crust when seared.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Pepper – Essential for seasoning the meat mixture and the gravy to perfection.
For the Gravy
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – This canned soup is the base of the gravy. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it the perfect addition to this dish.
• Whole Milk – Used to thin out the soup and make the gravy smooth and pourable.
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to the gravy.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
Now that you know what you’ll need, let’s walk through how to prepare this mouthwatering Amish Hamburger Steak Bake.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray to ensure the hamburger steak bake doesn’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and whole milk. Once well-combined, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. Set the gravy aside while you prepare the hamburger patties.
Step 3: Make the Hamburger Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltines, whole milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Mix everything together gently using your hands or two forks until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat to ensure the patties stay tender.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Form the meat mixture into evenly-sized patties. This ensures that they cook evenly in the oven. If you prefer a more uniform shape, you can use a patty press or the rim of a glass to help shape the patties.
Step 5: Dredge and Sear the Patties
Place all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each patty in the flour, coating both sides evenly. This will help create a crisp, golden crust when you sear them.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, sear the patties on both sides until they’re golden brown—this should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t worry if the inside of the patties is still undercooked at this point; they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Step 6: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the seared patties to the prepared baking dish. Evenly pour the gravy over the top of the patties, ensuring that each one is well-covered. The gravy will seep into the meat as it bakes, keeping the patties juicy and flavorful.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through and tender. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the gravy to thicken slightly.
Storage Options for Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
Whether you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and texture.
Refrigerator Storage
If you plan on enjoying leftovers within a few days, the refrigerator is the best option. First, allow the dish to cool to room temperature to avoid excess condensation, which could make the gravy watery. Once cooled, transfer the hamburger steak and gravy to an airtight container. Refrigerate the dish within two hours of cooking, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
When reheating, the oven works best to maintain its texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the dish for 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Freezing this casserole also makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy nights. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. If you prefer to divide it into servings for easy reheating, portion the casserole into individual containers. Wrap the containers tightly in plastic wrap or heavy-duty aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, and label them with the date.
Frozen, this dish is best enjoyed within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat from frozen in the oven. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
While the traditional Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on dietary preferences or to add variety to the dish. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
1. Meat Swap
For a lighter twist, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. These options offer different flavors and textures while keeping the dish juicy and satisfying.
2. Cheese Lovers
If you love cheese, try adding shredded cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella to the gravy or on top of the patties before baking. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a rich, creamy layer that adds depth to the dish.
3. Veggie Boost
Add some extra flavor and nutrition by mixing in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the ground beef mixture. These vegetables add color, texture, and additional savory flavors that complement the dish perfectly.
4. Low-Carb Option
For a low-carb version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour and use heavy cream instead of whole milk in the gravy. These adjustments will make the dish suitable for a keto or low-carb diet without sacrificing flavor.
5. Spicy Kick
If you like a bit of heat, amp up the spice with paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a few dashes of hot sauce in the gravy. You can adjust the heat to suit your taste, whether you prefer a mild warmth or a more intense spice.
Tips for Making the Best Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
To ensure your Amish Hamburger Steak Bake turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Use High-Quality Ground Beef
The quality of the beef you use will directly affect the flavor and texture of the patties. Opt for fresh, high-quality ground beef with a good fat content (around 80/20). This will ensure the patties are juicy and flavorful.
2. Don’t Overwork the Meat
When mixing the meat and ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough patties. Gently combine the ingredients using your hands or two forks until just mixed.
3. Sear the Patties for Extra Flavor
Searing the patties before baking helps to lock in flavor and creates a golden-brown crust on the outside. While it’s not strictly necessary, searing adds a delicious layer of texture and flavor that elevates the dish.
4. Cover the Dish When Baking
Covering the dish with aluminum foil while baking helps keep the patties moist and ensures they cook evenly. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the gravy to thicken slightly.
5. Adjust the Gravy Consistency
If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra milk or broth. If it’s too thin, allow it to cook uncovered for a few minutes during the baking process to thicken up.
6. Let the Dish Rest Before Serving
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the hamburger steaks even more tender and flavorful.
Conclusion on Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a classic comfort food that combines simplicity with rich, savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy nights, special occasions, or even meal prepping for the week. With its tender hamburger patties, creamy gravy, and minimal clean-up, it’s a go-to dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, the dish remains a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Don’t forget to try serving it with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or your favorite side dish for a complete and hearty meal.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor, tradition, and a touch of Amish-inspired goodness.
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake Recipe Card
Ingredients
For the Patties:
2 pounds ground beef
1 ½ cups crushed saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
1 cup whole milk
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
All-purpose flour for dredging
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Gravy:
2 (10.75 oz) cans cream of mushroom soup
1 ½ cups whole milk
1 ½ tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and whole milk. Stir in the chopped parsley and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltines, whole milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until combined.
Shape the meat mixture into even-sized patties.
Place all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each patty in the flour, coating both sides.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. The patties will be undercooked inside.
Place the browned patties in the greased baking dish. Pour the prepared gravy over the top, ensuring each patty is covered.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and tender.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Meat Swap: For a lighter version, try ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
Cheese: Add shredded cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and heavy cream instead of whole milk for a low-carb option.
Add Veggies: Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 470 kcal
Protein: 33g
Carbs: 25g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
