Amish Hamburger Steak Bake: A Hearty, One-Dish Comfort Meal
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines savory hamburger patties with a rich gravy and hearty vegetables, all baked to perfection. This casserole-style meal is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a warm, satisfying dinner. The unique combination of seasoned beef, creamy gravy, and tender vegetables makes this dish a family favorite. It’s simple, filling, and full of classic Amish flavors that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basic recipe, provide advanced techniques, discuss tips for storing leftovers, and explore dietary adaptations to suit various needs.
For more comforting casserole recipes, check out Amish Casserole Recipes on Allrecipes and Hearty Casserole Recipes on Taste of Home.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients for Amish Hamburger Steak Bake:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or any cream soup of choice)
- 1 cup frozen peas (or mixed vegetables)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (pre-made or homemade)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Hamburger Patties: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on your desired portion size.
- Cook the Hamburger Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the hamburger patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the patties are browned and cooked through. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
- Prepare the Gravy: In the same skillet, add flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the gravy has thickened, add the cream of mushroom soup and stir until smooth. Add in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, place the cooked hamburger patties. Pour the prepared gravy mixture with vegetables over the patties. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top of the gravy and beef.
- Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the gravy is bubbling. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to allow the mashed potatoes to brown slightly on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.
Advanced Techniques for Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
1. Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess:
For a cheesy twist, add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking. The cheese will melt and form a golden crust, adding a deliciously creamy texture to the dish.
2. Customize the Vegetables:
While peas are a common addition, you can customize the vegetable mix based on your preferences. Try adding corn, carrots, or even green beans for extra color and nutrition.
3. Spice It Up:
If you like a bit of spice, you can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to the gravy mixture for a little heat. Alternatively, a sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika can add a smoky, savory flavor to the dish.
4. Use Homemade Mashed Potatoes:
For an even more flavorful base, make homemade mashed potatoes with butter, cream, and garlic. This will elevate the overall taste of the casserole and provide a richer flavor than store-bought or instant mashed potatoes.
5. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken:
For a lighter version, replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This change will still provide a delicious meal while reducing the fat content.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
How to Store:
Store leftover Amish Hamburger Steak Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before refrigerating it.
Freezing Tips:
This casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. If freezing individual portions, you can store them in smaller containers or use freezer bags. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Reheating Tips:
To reheat the casserole, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, for 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free:
To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free, or use a gluten-free alternative. Use a gluten-free flour for the gravy.
Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly:
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground flaxseed to make the patties. Swap the mashed potatoes for cauliflower mash for a low-carb alternative that keeps the texture and flavor.
Dairy-Free:
To make the dish dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and a dairy-free cream soup. For the mashed potatoes, substitute dairy-free milk and butter to keep the creaminess without dairy.
Vegetarian:
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with vegetarian meat crumbles or lentils. You can still follow the same method for assembling the casserole, and use a vegetarian-friendly cream soup for the gravy.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble the dish up until the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, follow the instructions and bake as directed.
2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes for the topping?
Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes if you prefer a quicker option. However, homemade mashed potatoes will provide a creamier, more flavorful result.
3. Can I use a different type of soup for the gravy?
Absolutely! While cream of mushroom is traditional, you can use cream of celery, cream of chicken, or any other creamy soup for variation. Each will lend a slightly different flavor to the gravy.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want to add some spice, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the gravy mixture. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes over the top for added heat.
5. Can I make the hamburger patties smaller?
Yes, you can adjust the size of the hamburger patties. If you make them smaller, reduce the cooking time slightly. Just ensure they are fully cooked before assembling the casserole.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting guests, this one-dish recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and filling. With its combination of juicy beef patties, savory gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal everyone will love. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Amish-inspired classic!