When I first stumbled upon this Amish Poor Man’s Steak recipe, I was skeptical. How could ground beef possibly compare to a juicy ribeye? But let me tell you, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and it might just become one in yours too.
What is Poor Man’s Steak?
Poor Man’s Steak is a clever creation that turns humble ground beef into a mouthwatering meal that rivals any fancy steakhouse offering. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of Amish cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something truly special.
Why is it Called Poor Man’s Steak?
The name might not sound appetizing, but don’t let it fool you. This dish earned its moniker because it uses affordable ground beef instead of pricier steak cuts. It’s a brilliant way to stretch your food budget without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients and Preparation
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:
– 2 pounds ground beef
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup cracker crumbs (saltines work great)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but I always add it)
– 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
– Butter for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, cracker crumbs, onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
2. Shape the steaks: Form the mixture into thick patties. I like to make mine about 1-inch thick. Pro tip: refrigerate these for an hour or overnight. It makes them easier to handle and helps the flavors meld.
3. Fry to perfection: Melt some butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge each patty in flour, then fry until they’re beautifully browned on both sides. This step is crucial for developing that rich, savory flavor.
4. Bake and smother: Transfer the browned patties to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix the cream of mushroom soup with a little milk to thin it out, then pour this over the patties. Bake at 350°F for about an hour, or until the meat is cooked through and the gravy is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Now, here’s where you can really make this meal shine. I love serving Poor Man’s Steak with a heap of creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy from the dish is perfect for drizzling over both the steak and potatoes.
Popular Side Dishes
– Buttered egg noodles: These soak up the gravy beautifully.
– Steamed green beans: A little crunch to balance out the richness of the meat.
– Fresh garden salad: For a pop of color and freshness on the plate.
One of my favorite memories is making this dish for my skeptical city-dwelling friends. They couldn’t believe something so simple could taste so good. The looks on their faces when they took that first bite? Priceless.
This Amish Poor Man’s Steak recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s about taking simple ingredients and, with a little love and know-how, turning them into something extraordinary.
So next time you’re craving steak but your wallet’s feeling a bit light, give this recipe a try. I guarantee it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation, just like it has in mine.
Remember, the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. This Poor Man’s Steak might just be the ticket to your next memorable gathering.
