If you’re craving a hearty, no-fuss dinner that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen, Amish Poor Man’s Steak might just be your new favorite recipe. This humble yet flavorful dish turns everyday pantry staples into something extraordinary — seasoned ground beef patties baked in a creamy mushroom gravy until fork-tender.

It’s a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs kind of meal, perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or whenever you want a taste of old-fashioned comfort. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly and makes enough to feed the whole family without breaking the bank.

 

 

Ingredients

For the Patties

• Ground beef – 2 lbs
• Saltine crackers – 1½ cups, crushed (about 1 sleeve)
• Whole milk – 1 cup
• Italian seasoning – ½ teaspoon
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
• Onion powder – ½ teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper – ¼ teaspoon
• Kosher salt & black pepper – to taste
• All-purpose flour – for dredging

For the Gravy

• Condensed cream of mushroom soup – 2 cans (10.75 oz each)
• Whole milk – 1½ cups
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped – 1½ tablespoons

 

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.

2. Make the Gravy
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Stir in the parsley, then set aside.

3. Mix the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed crackers, milk, and seasonings. Gently mix until just combined — overmixing can make the patties dense. Shape into even-sized patties.

4. Dredge & Sear
Lightly coat each patty in flour. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the patties on both sides until golden brown. (They’ll finish cooking in the oven.)

5. Bake Until Tender
Arrange the seared patties in your prepared baking dish. Pour the gravy evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30–40 minutes, until the patties are fully cooked and tender.

 

 

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Amish Poor Man’s Steak warm over creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy white rice. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh pop of color.

 

 

Tips & Variations

• Make-ahead friendly: You can freeze uncooked patties and the gravy separately for easy prep later.
• Extra flavor: Sauté fresh mushrooms and stir them into the gravy before baking.
• Stretch the meal: Pair with steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad for a complete dinner.

 

 

Final Thoughts

This Amish Poor Man’s Steak is more than just a recipe — it’s a warm hug on a plate. Affordable, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether you’re cooking for a big family or just love leftovers for lunch the next day, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite.