Introduction
Amish cuisine is known for its hearty, home-cooked meals that bring warmth and comfort to the table. One such dish is Amish Hamburger Steak Bake, a flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines seasoned ground beef patties with a rich, savory gravy. This dish is baked to perfection, making the meat incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s an easy, old-fashioned comfort meal that requires simple ingredients yet delivers big flavors.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered noodles. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a meal that the whole family will love.
Let’s dive into this classic Amish recipe and learn how to prepare Amish Hamburger Steak Bake step by step.
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For the Gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and thyme.
- Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions and shape them into oval or round patties.
- Place the patties on a plate and set aside while preparing the gravy.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Pour in the milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir continuously until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Hamburger Steaks
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
- Sear the hamburger patties on both sides for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Remove from the skillet and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the prepared gravy over the hamburger steaks, making sure each patty is well coated.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the patties are fully cooked and the flavors have melded.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake hot with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice.
- Spoon extra gravy over the top for maximum flavor.
Variations
- Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the gravy for extra depth and umami flavor.
- Cheesy Version: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy for some heat.
- Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and substitute milk with a lower-fat alternative.
Cooking Notes
- Browning the patties before baking enhances their flavor by creating a delicious crust.
- Using 80/20 ground beef ensures the patties stay juicy and tender.
- If the gravy thickens too much while baking, add a splash of beef broth before serving.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the rich gravy.
- Pair with a side of steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or corn on the cob.
- Enjoy with homemade dinner rolls or crusty bread to complete the meal.
Tips
- Let the patties rest before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- For extra flavor, marinate the ground beef mixture for 30 minutes before shaping the patties.
- Use homemade beef broth for the best taste and fewer preservatives.
- Double the recipe to make a freezer-friendly meal—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 740mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute the all-purpose flour in the gravy with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a mix of balsamic vinegar and a dash of fish sauce for similar depth of flavor.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Bake the dish, let it cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm.
Conclusion
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a classic comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. With its tender beef patties and rich, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for a hearty family meal. The baking process ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying and wholesome dinner.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Amish home-cooked goodness. Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite sides for a truly comforting meal!