Description
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a comforting, old-fashioned classic made with tender hamburger steaks baked slowly in a rich, creamy gravy. Simple ingredients, hearty flavors, and an oven-baked method make this dish perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekends.
Introduction
Rooted in traditional Amish home cooking, this recipe focuses on simplicity, nourishment, and deep flavor. Instead of frying, the hamburger steaks are baked gently in gravy, allowing them to stay juicy and tender while absorbing every bit of savory goodness. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare with no stovetop frying required. The creamy gravy adds incredible richness and comfort. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers. Most of all, it delivers that nostalgic, homemade flavor that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
For the Hamburger Steaks
2 pounds ground beef
1 cup crushed crackers
1 cup milk
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 large egg, beaten
For the Gravy
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, onion, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
Shape the mixture into oval-shaped patties and arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until a smooth paste forms.
Slowly whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer for a few minutes until the gravy thickens slightly.
Pour the gravy evenly over the hamburger steaks. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the steaks are fully cooked and tender.
Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to lightly brown the top.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Results
Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the steaks tender. If the gravy thickens too much while cooking, add a small splash of broth to loosen it. Covering the dish tightly helps keep the meat moist during baking.
Variations
Add sliced mushrooms or onions to the gravy for extra depth. Use ground turkey for a lighter version. A pinch of paprika can add gentle warmth to the gravy.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish reheats well in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered Amish-style noodles, roasted vegetables, or fresh bread to soak up the gravy.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling completely for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is the definition of comfort food—simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. With tender beef and creamy gravy baked together in one dish, it’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth and tradition to every meal.