Amish Poor Man’s Steak is the epitome of comfort food—a hearty and satisfying dish that brings warmth to any table. Tender beef patties are infused with rich flavors from crushed crackers and creamy milk, then simmered to perfection in a luxurious mushroom-based gravy. It’s an uncomplicated yet deeply satisfying recipe.
Perfect for family dinners or a cozy evening at home, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or buttery noodles to soak up the rich, velvety gravy. Simple ingredients and timeless techniques make it a classic you’ll return to time and again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup crushed saltine crackers
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the mixture into 6-8 oval patties, resembling small steaks.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the patties in batches until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the patties and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and bring to a simmer.
- Return the browned patties to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the gravy.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy has thickened.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 425 kcal | Servings: 6-8 servings
Background and History
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a classic dish deeply rooted in Amish culinary traditions, known for their simplicity and resourcefulness in the kitchen. This dish was originally created as an affordable way to stretch ground beef while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal for the whole family. By combining basic pantry staples like saltine crackers and milk, the recipe transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful and comforting dish that stands the test of time.
What Makes It Special
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ground beef patties are mixed with crushed crackers and milk to create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Seasonings like onion and garlic powder enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish. The real magic happens when the patties simmer in a rich, creamy gravy made with beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and heavy cream, creating a sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes or rice.
Variations
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for customization based on personal preferences or dietary needs:
- Meat Options: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef.
- Gravy Variations: Add sautéed onions or mushrooms to the gravy for extra depth.
- Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of crackers for a keto-friendly version.
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Swap the beef patties for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth in the gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Amish Poor Man’s Steak pairs beautifully with traditional sides such as:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
- A fresh garden salad or coleslaw for a touch of freshness
Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners due to its ease of preparation and budget-friendly ingredients. It’s also an excellent choice for gatherings and potlucks, as it can be made in advance and reheated without losing its deliciousness. The rich gravy ensures the patties remain moist, making it an ideal dish for serving a crowd.
Fun Fact
The term “Poor Man’s Steak” is a nod to the frugality of the recipe. It mimics the richness of a traditional steak dinner without the high cost, making it a beloved meal in households where resourcefulness is key.
The Heart of Amish Cooking
Amish cooking is celebrated for its hearty, uncomplicated recipes that rely on fresh, wholesome ingredients. Amish Poor Man’s Steak is no exception, embodying the values of simplicity, frugality, and family togetherness. This dish reflects the Amish tradition of creating flavorful, filling meals using basic pantry staples, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Passed down through generations, it remains a staple in Amish households and has become a comfort food favorite far beyond the Amish community.
Why Everyone Loves Amish Poor Man’s Steak
- Budget-Friendly: The recipe uses economical ingredients like ground beef and crackers, making it accessible for families on a budget.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or novice cooks.
- Rich and Satisfying: The creamy mushroom gravy elevates the dish to comfort food perfection, pairing wonderfully with mashed potatoes or warm bread.
- Versatile: It’s highly adaptable to different dietary needs or preferences, allowing for creative twists.
Tips for Perfecting Amish Poor Man’s Steak
- Choose the Right Ground Beef: For the best balance of flavor and texture, use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. This ensures the patties stay moist and flavorful.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the patties, mix gently to avoid compacting the meat. This results in tender, juicy steaks.
- Let the Gravy Simmer: Allow the patties to simmer in the gravy for at least 30 minutes. This gives them time to absorb the rich flavors while the gravy thickens beautifully.
Make It Your Own
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a fantastic base recipe that invites creativity:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or Worcestershire sauce to the patty mixture for a flavor boost.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the patties during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a gooey, indulgent finish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the saltine crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The cooked patties can be frozen (separately from the gravy) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: Warm the patties in a skillet with some gravy over low heat to maintain their moisture and flavor.
A Dish That Brings People Together
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the joy in gathering around the table for hearty, homemade food. Its comforting flavors and nostalgic appeal make it a dish that families return to time and again. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or as part of a larger gathering, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite.
Conclusion
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a timeless recipe that embodies the essence of comfort food—simple, hearty, and satisfying. Its rich, creamy gravy and tender beef patties make it a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit any taste or preference.
Whether you’re drawn to its frugal origins, nostalgic flavors, or sheer ease of preparation, Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, and you’ll have a meal that brings joy to the table and smiles to everyone who tastes it.