Easy Amish Hamburger Steak Bake

This Easy Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is the ultimate comfort food casserole, combining juicy seasoned ground beef patties with a rich, savory gravy and baked to perfection. It’s a hearty, homestyle dish that brings warmth to the dinner table with simple pantry staples and classic flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the definition of cozy, satisfying comfort food. It uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen and transforms them into a filling, family-friendly meal. The beef patties stay tender and flavorful, while the creamy gravy keeps everything moist and delicious during baking.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights because it requires minimal prep work. You can mix, shape, assemble, and bake all in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish that reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal planning.

The combination of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and baked goodness creates a nostalgic, homestyle flavor that everyone at the table will enjoy.

Ingredients

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

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup whole milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the gravy:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 oval patties, similar to hamburger steaks.
4. Arrange the patties in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
5. To prepare the gravy, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden.
6. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the milk, salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
7. Simmer the gravy for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
8. Pour the gravy evenly over the hamburger steaks in the baking dish.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the beef is fully cooked and the gravy is bubbling.
10. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 to 8 servings

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 to 50 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

For a mushroom version, add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the gravy while it simmers.

If you prefer a cheesier dish, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.

For added texture, mix 1/4 cup finely diced bell peppers into the beef mixture.

To make it gluten-free, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy.

You can also layer thinly sliced potatoes or cooked rice under the patties for a heartier casserole-style meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 2 to 3 minutes or until warmed through.

For oven reheating, place the steaks in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F (165°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a leaner ground beef?

Yes, but 80/20 ground beef provides the best flavor and moisture. Leaner beef may result in slightly drier patties.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I know when the hamburger steaks are fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Can I freeze the dish before baking?

Yes. Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

What can I serve with this bake?

Mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, buttered carrots, or a simple side salad pair perfectly with this dish.

Can I substitute the milk in the gravy?

Yes. You can use half-and-half for a richer gravy or a dairy-free milk alternative if needed.

Why are my patties tough?

Overmixing the beef mixture can make the patties dense and tough. Mix just until combined.

Can I add vegetables directly to the baking dish?

Yes. Thinly sliced onions or mushrooms can be placed under or around the patties before adding the gravy.

How can I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

Let it simmer a few extra minutes, or whisk in a small slurry made from 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The mild seasoning and creamy gravy make it a family favorite for both kids and adults.

Conclusion

Easy Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a timeless comfort meal that delivers rich flavor with simple ingredients. Tender seasoned beef patties baked in a creamy homemade gravy create a satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings. With its easy preparation, customizable options, and hearty appeal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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