Amish Hamburger Steak Bake: A Hearty & Comforting Casserole
If you love classic comfort food, then you’re in for a treat! This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a rich, hearty, and satisfying dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, flavorful sauce in one easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is an affordable, filling, and crowd-pleasing recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home.
Introduction
When it comes to traditional Amish recipes, simplicity and heartiness are key. This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a one-pan dish that combines juicy ground beef, thinly sliced russet potatoes, and a homemade creamy sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbly. The result? A savory, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor and texture.
One of the best things about this dish is that it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s also highly customizable, so you can add vegetables, cheese, or different seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly dinner idea or a nostalgic comfort meal, this Amish-style casserole is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Amish Hamburger Steak Bake:
Essential Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups milk, divided
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy version)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky depth of flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano (for an herby touch)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (for a savory crunch)
How to Make Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
3. Prepare the Potatoes & Onions
While the beef is cooking, thinly slice the russet potatoes and onion. Try to keep the slices uniform in thickness (about 1/8-inch) to ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help achieve perfectly thin slices quickly.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat 1 1/2 cups of milk over medium heat until warm. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of milk and the flour until smooth, then gradually add this mixture to the saucepan while stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by half of the sliced onions. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and onions.
6. Pour Over the Sauce
Evenly pour the creamy sauce over the entire casserole, ensuring it soaks through all the layers. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
7. Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Serve & Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes slicing easier. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious Amish-inspired comfort meal!
Helpful Tips
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: To ensure even cooking, make sure all potato slices are of equal thickness.
- Use High-Starch Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape and absorb flavors well.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add extra garlic, paprika, or herbs.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps the flavors blend together and makes slicing easier.
Cooking Tips
- Make It Cheesy: Add shredded cheese between the layers for an extra creamy and cheesy texture.
- Crispier Top: For a crispier topping, place the casserole under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Add Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk or mix in sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:
- Steamed green beans for a light, fresh contrast
- Homemade dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce
- A crisp side salad for a refreshing balance
- Roasted carrots or glazed Brussels sprouts for extra flavor
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Calcium: 10% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
- Freeze: This dish freezes well! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and bake when ready.
What’s the best way to slice potatoes thinly?
A mandoline slicer is the easiest way to get uniform, thin slices quickly.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter, nuttier flavor to the dish.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Amish Hamburger Steak Bake, try these other comforting dishes:
- Teriyaki Salmon Bowls with Crispy Brussels Sprouts
- Crispy Fish Batter Recipe
- Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Oyster Stew – A Classic Comfort Dish
Conclusion
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is the perfect comfort food—rich, hearty, and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this savory, satisfying dish is sure to please. Give it a try today and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal! 🍽️