Amish Poor Man’s Steak
If you’re longing for a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs dinner that feels like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen, this Amish Poor Man’s Steak is just the ticket. Made with seasoned ground beef and smothered in creamy mushroom gravy, it’s a budget-friendly twist on Salisbury steak that’s big on flavor and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
Inspired by traditional Amish cooking, this dish transforms everyday pantry staples into a satisfying meal that’s baked until fork-tender and served over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or fluffy white rice. It’s cozy, nostalgic, and ideal for busy weeknights or make-ahead meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1½ cups crushed saltine crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Kosher salt & black pepper to taste
- All-purpose flour (for dredging)
For the Gravy
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1½ tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
In a bowl, whisk together mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in chopped parsley and set aside.
In a bowl, whisk together mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in chopped parsley and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined, then shape into evenly sized patties.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined, then shape into evenly sized patties.
Step 4: Dredge & Sear
Lightly coat each patty in flour. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear patties on both sides until golden brown. (They won’t be fully cooked yet.)
Lightly coat each patty in flour. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear patties on both sides until golden brown. (They won’t be fully cooked yet.)
Step 5: Bake
Arrange seared patties in the prepared baking dish. Pour gravy mixture evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30–40 minutes, until patties are cooked through and tender.
Arrange seared patties in the prepared baking dish. Pour gravy mixture evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30–40 minutes, until patties are cooked through and tender.
To Serve
Serve warm over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
