Amish Poor Man’s Steak Recipe

If you love hearty, comforting meals that feel like a hug on a plate, Amish Poor Man’s Steak is the dish you’ve been looking for. This timeless recipe comes straight from the heart of Amish country, where simplicity, resourcefulness, and big family meals are a way of life. Unlike a pricey steak dinner, this dish transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something that tastes indulgent. A juicy, flavorful meat patty, baked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy gravy, makes this recipe a favorite for generations. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, incredibly filling, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients for Amish Poor Man’s Steak

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture.

Ground beef (2 pounds): The star of the dish, forming the “steak” base. Use lean beef for less grease, or 80/20 for maximum juiciness.

Saltine crackers (1 sleeve, crushed): Adds bulk, stretches the beef, and creates a tender, homestyle texture.

Whole milk (1 cup): Softens the crackers and keeps the patties moist.

Eggs (2 large): Bind the mixture together, ensuring the patties hold their shape.

Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the patties.

Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor of the beef.

Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds just the right amount of seasoning.

Cream of mushroom soup (2 cans): Forms the creamy, savory gravy base.

Milk (1 can’s worth): Thins the soup into a smooth, pourable gravy.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, eggs, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated, but don’t overwork the meat, or the patties can turn tough.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Form the mixture into oval patties about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and helps the patties hold together during baking.

Step 3: Brown the Patties

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly brown each patty on both sides. This step locks in flavor and gives the “steak” a beautiful crust. You don’t need to cook them through—just a nice golden sear.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This will be your creamy mushroom gravy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the browned patties in a large baking dish, then pour the mushroom gravy over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes, until the patties are cooked through and tender.

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Why Everyone Loves Amish Poor Man’s Steak

Budget-friendly: Stretches ground beef into a full family meal.

Hearty and satisfying: Each patty is tender, juicy, and smothered in gravy.

Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better reheated the next day.

Crowd-pleasing comfort food: Loved by both picky eaters and adults alike.

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Pro Tips for the Best Amish Poor Man’s Steak

1. Don’t skip chilling the patties. This step ensures they don’t fall apart while browning.

2. Use fresh onion. Grating or finely chopping onion blends it seamlessly into the patties for flavor without chunks.

3. Customize the gravy. Add sautéed mushrooms, garlic powder, or Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor boost.

4. Double the gravy. If you’re a gravy lover, make an extra batch—this dish is irresistible with mashed potatoes.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair Amish Poor Man’s Steak with these sides for a complete comfort-food feast:

Mashed potatoes: The ultimate partner to soak up that rich mushroom gravy.

Buttered egg noodles: A cozy alternative to potatoes.

Steamed green beans or carrots: Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Homemade dinner rolls: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of sauce.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly, comforting, and family-approved recipe, Amish Poor Man’s Steak is the answer. With simple pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Juicy beef patties, golden seared and baked under a blanket of creamy mushroom gravy, deliver the kind of satisfaction only 

true comfort food can bring. Once you try it, this recipe is bound to become a regular at your dinner table.