If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious recipe to add to your collection, then you should definitely try Amish country recipes. From my personal experience, I can assure you that poor man’s hamburger steaks are a delightful and fulfilling dish that the whole family will enjoy.

I first tried this recipe when I stumbled upon an Amish vendor at Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia. There was something about the gravy-covered hamburger steaks that captured my heart. It was a simple yet comforting dish that I couldn’t resist recreating at home. Now, it has become a staple in our family dinners, and I’m sure it will be in yours too!

The key to these hamburger steaks is the combination of flavorful ingredients and the delicious gravy that covers them. Unlike traditional hamburgers, these steaks are incredibly moist and tender, with a burst of incredible flavor.

To achieve this, we use crushed saltine crackers and milk as key ingredients. The crackers add flavor and the milk keeps the mixture moist and tender. We also add a blend of seasonings, such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of cayenne for a little kick. After shaping the patties and dredging them in flour, we sear them to lock in even more flavor. Finally, we prepare a quick and easy white gravy that not only adds moisture but also enhances the overall taste of the dish.

This classic and affordable recipe is perfect for family dinners. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and will leave everyone satisfied and asking for more!

Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks Recipe

Serves: 6-8
Preparation time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups saltine crackers, crushed (approximately 1 sleeve of crackers)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
• All-purpose flour, for dredging
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Gravy:

• 2 (10.75 oz.) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and whole milk. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley and set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
4. Use your hands or two forks to gently combine the ingredients until just mixed. Shape the mixture into even-sized patties.
5. Place all-purpose flour (approximately 1 cup, or more if needed) in a shallow dish and dredge each patty in the flour.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the patties on both sides until golden brown. You may need to work in batches as needed. The insides of the patties will still be undercooked at this stage.
7. Transfer the browned patties to the greased baking dish and evenly top them with the prepared gravy. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the patties are cooked through.

Enjoy this classic Amish recipe with your loved ones and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!

Recipe adapted from Sweet Little Bluebird