Homestyle Comfort: Amish Poor Man’s Hamburger Steak with Creamy Gravy
When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals that evoke a sense of nostalgia, few dishes compare to Amish Poor Man’s Hamburger Steak with Creamy Gravy. This classic recipe is a testament to simple, wholesome ingredients and the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish is sure to leave everyone feeling warm and satisfied. Join us as we dive into the heart of Amish cuisine and explore the deliciousness of this beloved comfort food.
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 2.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 cups crushed saltine crackers
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour for coating
For the Creamy Gravy:
- 3 cans condensed cream of mushroom soup (~10 ounces each)
- 1 can milk (~10 ounces)
- 1 can water (~10 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Hamburger Steaks:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, milk, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into round patties, approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Coat each patty lightly with flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Hamburger Steaks:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the skillet.
- Place the coated hamburger steaks in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Gravy:
- In the same skillet used to cook the hamburger steaks, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and water. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley, then return the cooked hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning some of the gravy over the top.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Amish Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks hot, accompanied by creamy gravy. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Pair with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Onion Flavor: For added flavor, sauté finely chopped onions in the skillet before cooking the hamburger steaks. Remove the onions and set aside, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
- Cheese Topping: For an indulgent twist, top each cooked hamburger steak with a slice of your favorite cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar) during the last minute of cooking. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before serving.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the hamburger steak mixture, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, to customize the flavor to your liking.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this recipe? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Keep in mind that ground turkey may require additional seasoning for flavor, as it is milder in taste compared to beef.
Q: Can I make the gravy from scratch instead of using condensed soup? A: Absolutely! To make homemade gravy, start by melting butter in the skillet, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add beef broth or stock, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of saltine crackers for coating the hamburger steaks. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients used, such as flour and condensed soup, are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this dish? A: Yes, leftover hamburger steaks and gravy can be frozen for future meals. Allow the cooked steaks and gravy to cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto-Friendly Version:
To make a keto-friendly version of Amish Poor Man’s Hamburger Steak, substitute crushed pork rinds or almond flour for the saltine crackers. Use heavy cream or a combination of cream and water instead of milk in the hamburger steak mixture. For the gravy, use heavy cream or coconut milk in place of condensed soup, and thicken with xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener.
Low-Carb Variation:
For a low-carb variation, omit the breadcrumbs or crackers from the hamburger steak mixture and coat the patties in a combination of grated Parmesan cheese and almond flour. Use a low-carb cream soup or make a homemade low-carb gravy using beef broth, heavy cream, and thickening agents such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder.
In conclusion, Amish Poor Man’s Hamburger Steak with Creamy Gravy is a timeless dish that embodies the essence of homestyle cooking and comfort food. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and creamy gravy, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether served for Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. So, gather your ingredients and experience the rustic charm of Amish cuisine with this delicious and satisfying dish!
