Amish Poor Man’s Steak – Classic, Budget-Friendly Comfort Food That Hits the Spot!
This old-fashioned Amish dish transforms simple ground beef into a hearty, steak-like meal that’s smothered in rich brown gravy. It’s economical, filling, and perfect for families looking for something warm and satisfying.
I first had Poor Man’s Steak at a church potluck, where one of the elder Amish ladies proudly called it “steak without the price tag.” It was love at first bite—tender patties with crispy edges, soaked in creamy gravy, served over mashed potatoes. It instantly became one of my go-to nostalgic comfort meals!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup water or milk (for gravy)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into rectangular or oval patties (about 6–8).
- Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 20–30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, sear each patty over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until browned (they don’t need to be cooked through).
- Arrange seared patties in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with water or milk and pour evenly over the patties.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the gravy.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 6)
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Printable Recipe Summary
| Amish Poor Man’s Steak | |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, spices, cream of mushroom soup |
| Instructions | Mix, shape, freeze, sear, bake with soup mixture, serve hot |
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze the patties ahead of time?
Yes, freeze them raw or after searing, then bake when needed—great for meal prep.
Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or homemade gravy works well.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
Yes, chopped mushrooms or green peppers can be added to the beef mixture or gravy.
Q: What side dishes pair best?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered noodles make it a full Amish-style meal.
