Introduction
Amish Hamburger Steak is a comforting, down-home dish made with seasoned ground beef patties simmered in a savory onion gravy. Rooted in the heart of traditional Amish cooking, this recipe captures the simplicity and wholesomeness of rural American kitchens. It’s a humble yet satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or seasonal vegetables.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Amish cuisine is a reflection of the community’s values—simplicity, sustainability, and tradition. The Hamburger Steak, similar to Salisbury steak, is a staple in Amish households due to its affordability and hearty nature. Ground beef was often more accessible than whole cuts, making this a go-to dish for large families. The recipe showcases the Amish reliance on garden produce and pantry staples, particularly onions and flour for thickening.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)
For the hamburger steaks:
1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup milk
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the onion gravy:
2 tbsp butter
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
Add 1 tsp mustard or horseradish to the beef mix for a sharper depth.
Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for freshness.
For a creamier gravy, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
Sauté mushrooms with the onions for a rustic twist.
Tips for Success
Don’t overwork the beef mixture; gently mix until combined to avoid dense patties.
Allow the patties to sear well before flipping—they should develop a crust.
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even browning and flavor development.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or wine after browning to capture all the flavors for the gravy.
Instructions
Make the patties:
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4–6 oval patties.
Sear the patties:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).
Prepare the gravy:
In the same skillet, add butter and sliced onions. Sauté until softened and golden, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper.
Simmer:
Return the patties to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the gravy thickens.
Serve:
Serve warm over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, spooning gravy generously over the top.
Description
Amish Hamburger Steak is a soul-soothing dish with juicy beef patties that are richly flavored and complemented by a luscious onion gravy. It’s rustic, filling, and brings together hearty ingredients in a beautifully simple way. The aroma of caramelized onions and seared meat creates an irresistible, old-fashioned kitchen warmth.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Iron: 18% DV
Calcium: 6% DV
(Values are approximate and vary depending on exact ingredients used.)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Amish Hamburger Steak is a practical and nourishing dish perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With easy-to-source ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a weeknight staple that never goes out of style. Pair it with traditional Amish sides like buttered corn, applesauce, or pickled beets for a full experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This dish embodies the Amish philosophy of moderation—using wholesome, real ingredients without excess. For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey and opt for whole-wheat breadcrumbs. Adding extra vegetables to the gravy or serving it with steamed greens balances indulgen
ce with nutrition. Enjoying meals like this encourages connection, gratitude, and mindful nourishment.