Amish Poor Man’s Steak: Simple, Hearty, and Comforting
At first glance, it’s humble—ground beef, crackers, and a creamy sauce—but recipes like this survive generations for a reason. Amish cooking thrives on simplicity: no shortcuts, no flash, just methods that work. The result is a meal that feels like it belongs at a farmhouse table—satisfying, filling, and timeless.
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a thrifty take on Salisbury steak, featuring seasoned ground beef smothered in a rich mushroom gravy. It’s hearty, flavorful, and designed to feed a crowd without stretching the budget. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday suppers, this dish turns pantry staples into pure comfort.
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
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the Gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the chopped parsley and set aside.
3. Form the Patties
In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings until just combined. Shape into evenly sized patties.
4. Dredge & Brown
Lightly coat each patty in flour. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown patties on both sides until golden (they don’t need to be fully cooked).
5. Bake
Arrange browned patties in the prepared baking dish. Pour the gravy evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake 30–40 minutes, until patties are tender and fully cooked.
To Serve
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice. Sprinkle with extra parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
Make-ahead friendly: Freeze uncooked patties and gravy separately for quick meals later.
Extra flavor: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for a richer texture.
Complete the plate: Serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp side salad.
Conclusion
Amish Poor Man’s Steak proves that the best meals don’t need to be fancy. Simple ingredients, time-tested methods, and deep, comforting flavor create a dish that warms the table and earns its place in the regular dinner rotation. Reliable, filling, and quietly unforgettable, this recipe is comfort food at its finest.