Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix and Bind
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed saltine crackers and 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about two minutes so the crackers absorb the liquid—this panade is the secret to keeping the ground beef from drying out. Add the ground beef, minced onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined.
2. Shape and Chill
Press the meat mixture evenly into a rimmed baking sheet or a flat dish until it is about ½-inch thick. Cover it and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour). Chilling the mixture solidifies the fats and ensures the patties hold their classic "steak" shape when cut. Once chilled, slice the rectangle into 6 or 8 equal portion-sized squares or rectangles.
3. Dredge and Sear (Optional but Recommended)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While you can place the patties straight into the baking dish, lightly dredging each rectangle in a little bit of flour and searing them in a hot skillet with a splash of oil for 2 minutes per side locks in the juices and creates a beautiful, flavorful crust. Place the seared patties in a single layer inside a 9x13-inch baking dish.
4. Mix the Smothering Gravy
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk (or beef broth) until smooth. Pour this rich mixture completely over the beef patties, ensuring they are entirely blanketed.
5. Bake Until Bubbling
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the gravy to bubble up up around the edges and turn a gorgeous, golden-brown color on top.
How to Serve It
Amish Poor Man’s Steak practically begs to be served alongside dishes that can catch every last drop of that incredible mushroom gravy.
Spoon a generous portion of the steak and gravy over a mountain of hot, buttery mashed potatoes, a bed of fluffy egg noodles, or thick slices of warm, homemade bread. Round out the plate with a side of sweet glazed carrots or crisp green beans, and you have a timeless, budget-friendly meal that tastes like pure gold
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