This cozy recipe for Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks features juicy ground beef, lightly seasoned and shaped into hearty patties. Served with a rich onion gravy, it’s comfort food at its best!
It’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights. I love serving mine with mashed potatoes or a side of veggies. Everyone leaves the table happy with this delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80% lean ground beef ensures juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90% lean works well too, but you might miss some juiciness. For a healthier alternative, consider ground turkey or chicken, just adjust cooking times.
Onion: Onions add sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are best for cooking, but if you have red onions, they work too. For a milder flavor, you could use green onions or shallots instead.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the patties. If you’re out, crushed crackers or even oats can work. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Milk: Regular milk is used for moisture. You can substitute with almond milk or any plant-based milk for dairy-free options. Just avoid flavored varieties, as they might change the taste.
Gravy Ingredients: The gravy relies heavily on beef broth for flavor. Vegetable broth can be a good substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just add a bit of soy sauce for extra umami.
How Do I Get Perfectly Browned Hamburger Steaks?
Getting those lovely brown burger patties is all about the cooking technique. You’ll want to ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the patties. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes before adding fat.
- Add butter or oil and wait until it’s shimmering, then lay down the patties without crowding the pan.
- Let them cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, only flipping once! This helps create that nice crust.
- Keep the heat steady to prevent burning, adjusting as needed.
Trust the process. Once done, let them rest for a minute before serving for the juiciest result!
Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Hamburger Steaks:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil, for frying
For the Onion Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. Make sure you set aside a little less than an hour in total to prepare, cook, and enjoy these comforting meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Gently mix until everything is well combined. Remember, don’t overwork the meat; just mix until it’s all together!
2. Shape the Patties:
Take the mixture and shape it into 6 to 8 patties, making them about 1 inch thick. You can make them oval or round, whichever you prefer!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the hamburger steaks. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.
4. Prepare the Onion Gravy:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. When it’s melted, toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them until they’re softened and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well to combine. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes so the flour can lose its raw taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to keep it lump-free. Let it come to a simmer and cook until it thickens, which should take around 5 minutes.
6. Season the Gravy:
Taste the gravy and season it with salt and pepper. You want it to be flavorful, so adjust according to your preference!
7. Combine the Patties and Gravy:
Return the hamburger steaks to the skillet, spooning that delicious onion gravy over them. Simmer everything together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hamburger steaks hot with the onion gravy drizzled generously on top. These are fantastic with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles and a side of vegetables.
Dig in and enjoy this comforting meal, inspired by Amish cooking traditions, that brings warmth and happiness to your table!
FAQ for Amish Country Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a healthier substitution, but keep in mind it may require a bit more seasoning to achieve the same flavor profile. You could also add a splash of soy sauce or extra spices to enhance the taste.
How Can I Store Leftover Hamburger Steaks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Spoon some extra gravy on top during reheating for added moisture!
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Yes! Shape the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge and follow the regular cooking instructions.
What Should I Serve with Poor Man’s Hamburger Steaks?
This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice to soak up the delicious gravy. For a healthier option, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
