Amish Hamburger Steak Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish embodies the essence of Amish cooking—simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. The combination of ground beef patties, thinly sliced potatoes, and a rich mushroom gravy creates layers of flavor and texture that are both comforting and delicious. It’s an easy-to-make meal that requires minimal preparation and delivers maximum taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups milk, divided
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 6 patties.
3. Brown Patties: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the patties on both sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
4. Make Gravy: In the same skillet, whisk together 1 cup of milk and flour until smooth. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of milk, stirring until a gravy forms. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. Assemble Casserole: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sliced onions. Place the browned hamburger patties over the onions. Add the remaining potatoes and onions on top. Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the entire dish.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn into the layers for added nutrition and color.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a subtle heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed to your liking.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Keep in mind that turkey may result in a slightly different texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to brown the patties before baking?

Browning the patties adds flavor and helps to lock in juices. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the patties directly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute cheddar with your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss, to customize the flavor.

How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too soft?

Ensure the potato slices are not too thin and layer them evenly. Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking helps retain moisture and prevents overcooking.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Certainly. Adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional breadcrumbs contain gluten. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.

How do I reheat frozen leftovers?

Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 30-40 minutes.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

Conclusion

The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a timeless comfort food that brings the warmth and simplicity of Amish cooking into your home. With its hearty layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and creamy gravy, it’s a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite.

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