Amish Poor Man’s Steak
If you’re craving a filling, comfort-food supper that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s stove, Amish Poor Man’s Steak fits the bill perfectly. Featuring well-seasoned ground beef patties baked in a rich, creamy mushroom gravy, this budget-friendly classic delivers big flavor without fancy ingredients. Think of it as a cozy, homemade take on Salisbury steak—ideal for feeding a hungry family.
Rooted in traditional Amish cooking, this dish turns simple pantry staples into a satisfying meal. Slow-baked until tender and juicy, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or steamed white rice. Warm, nostalgic, and practical, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Patties
- Ground beef – 2 lbs
- Crushed saltine crackers – 1½ cups (about 1 sleeve)
- Whole milk – 1 cup
- Italian seasoning – ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder – ½ teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Kosher salt & black pepper – to taste
- All-purpose flour (for dredging) – as needed
For the Gravy
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup – 2 cans (10.75 oz each)
- Whole milk – 1½ cups
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped – 1½ tablespoons
👨🍳 Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
🔹 Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
Stir in the chopped parsley and set aside.
🔹 Step 3: Make the Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings.
Mix gently just until combined, then form the mixture into evenly sized patties.
🔹 Step 4: Dredge & Brown
Lightly coat each patty with flour.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the patties on both sides until golden brown. (They will finish cooking in the oven.)
🔹 Step 5: Bake
Place the browned patties into the prepared baking dish.
Pour the gravy evenly over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the patties are tender and fully cooked.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Sprinkle with extra parsley if desired.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make-ahead friendly: Freeze the uncooked patties and gravy separately for easy future meals.
- Extra flavor: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy.
- Round it out: Serve with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad.
