This Easy Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks recipe is a hearty meal that uses simple ingredients. Juicy ground beef is shaped into patties and cooked until golden brown!
I love how this dish is like a warm hug on a plate, especially with its tasty onion gravy. You might find yourself going back for seconds! Don’t worry, I won’t tell. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works, though they may be less rich.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties together. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or rolled oats can do the job just fine. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a good substitute!
Onions: Both finely chopped and sliced onions add great flavor. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can skip the sliced ones for the gravy and use garlic powder in the meat mixture for some extra taste.
Beef Broth: This gives the gravy its depth. If you want a lighter version, vegetable broth or chicken broth can work without changing the essence of the dish too much.
How Do I Get the Hamburger Steaks to Brown Perfectly?
Getting a good sear on your patties is key for flavor! Follow these steps for success:
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the patties. Medium heat is ideal.
- Avoid crowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary, which helps them brown evenly.
- Resist the urge to flip too soon! Let them cook uninterrupted for 4-5 minutes on each side for that nice golden crust.
Perfectly browned patties give a nice texture and enhance the dish’s overall taste!
Easy Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks
Ingredients:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter, for frying
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and another 20 minutes for cooking. In total, this recipe takes about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix it all together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the patties tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into hamburger steaks (patties). Take your time to get them a nice round shape!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the patties to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook them over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring well to coat evenly. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to lightly brown the flour.
5. Add the Beef Broth:
Gradually whisk in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. If you want to add some depth of flavor, now’s the time to include Worcestershire sauce. Bring the gravy to a gentle simmer, cooking until it thickens up nicely, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious onion gravy over them. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Once ready, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. Enjoy your hearty meal!
This comforting dish captures the flavors of Amish country cooking, making it perfect for satisfying family dinners!
FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef! Just be aware that turkey may produce slightly drier patties, so you might want to add a bit more milk or use a higher fat content turkey for a juicier result.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even fresh bread in a pinch. If using fresh bread, make sure to toast it slightly to help absorb moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to moisten the patties if needed.
Can I Make the Gravy Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before serving, and if it thickens too much, stir in a little beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
