
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a comforting, old-fashioned dish rooted in thrift, patience, and home-style flavor. Despite its humble name, this recipe delivers rich taste and tender texture using simple, affordable ingredients. Traditionally prepared by Amish cooks, it turns ground beef into something that feels hearty and special—perfect for family dinners and cozy evenings.
What Is Amish Poor Man’s Steak?
Amish Poor Man’s Steak is not a steak in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s a seasoned ground beef mixture shaped into patties or a loaf, lightly coated in flour, pan-fried until golden, then slowly baked or simmered in a savory gravy. The slow cooking allows the meat to absorb flavor and become incredibly tender, making it a classic example of making the most out of what you have.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ to 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cracker crumbs or soft breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2–3 tablespoons oil or butter (for frying)
For the gravy:
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- Optional: sliced onions or mushrooms for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, cracker crumbs (or breadcrumbs), chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meat dense instead of tender.
Step 2: Shape the “Steaks”
Divide the mixture into evenly sized portions and shape them into oval or steak-like patties. They should be firm enough to hold together but not tightly packed.









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