This Easy Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a comforting dish that combines juicy hamburger patties with rich gravy and tender veggies. It’s all baked to perfection, making for a hearty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Onions: Fresh onions add great flavor. If you’re short on time, you can substitute with onion powder, using about 1 teaspoon instead. I love using diced shallots for a milder taste.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to help hold the patties together. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats. Panko breadcrumbs can add a nice crunch!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter choice, go with half-and-half or even milk. If dairy is not an option, coconut cream or cashew cream can work, but it will change the taste slightly.
How Do I Make the Gravy Just Right?
The gravy can really make or break this dish! The key is to whisk the flour thoroughly with the butter to create a smooth roux. Here are the steps:
- Start with medium heat; don’t rush it! Stir constantly for a rich color and deeper flavor.
- Gradually add beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. This step is important.
- Let the gravy simmer until it’s thickened to your liking before adding the cream.
Patience is key here—slow and steady wins the gravy race!
Easy Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For The Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of about 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s ready when your patties are seared and the gravy is made.
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, bread crumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until it’s well mixed but be careful not to overmix. This helps keep the patties tender.
3. Shape the Patties:
Take the mixture and shape it into 6 to 8 oval patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they don’t have to be all the same size!
4. Sear the Patties:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Sear each side for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
5. Make the Gravy:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, constantly stirring to create a roux. This is what thickens your gravy!
6. Add the Broth:
Slowly pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens up and resembles a good gravy.
7. Cream it Up:
Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, then let the gravy simmer for another 2 minutes. Yum! It should smell delicious at this point!
8. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Place the seared hamburger patties into a baking dish, then pour the rich gravy evenly over the top.
9. Bake it Up:
Put the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through and the gravy is bubbling.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve this tasty dish hot with mashed potatoes or some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Amish Hamburger Steak Bake!
Your family is going to love this warm and comforting dish!
FAQ for Easy Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef; however, keep in mind that it might not be as juicy. To add moisture, consider enhancing the mixture with an extra tablespoon of milk or adding a bit of olive oil.
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work well as substitutes. You may want to adjust the salt in the recipe since these broths can vary in sodium content.
How To Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water if necessary to revive the gravy.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and gravy ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, simply place the patties in a baking dish, cover with gravy, and bake as instructed.
