Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the steak ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the steaks: Form the beef mixture into 4-6 patties. Try to make the patties about ½ inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sear the patties: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. Don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked through at this stage—they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Remove the patties and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- Caramelize the onions: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the onion rings and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown (about 8-10 minutes).
- Make the roux: Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle the flour over them and stir well to combine. Cook the flour for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
- Add the liquids: Slowly whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, making sure there are no lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture starts to thicken, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, and let the gravy simmer for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Bake Everything Together
- Assemble the dish: In a baking dish, place the seared hamburger steaks. Pour the onion gravy over the top, making sure the steaks are fully covered with the rich sauce.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the steaks are fully cooked through.
- Uncover and finish baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly.
Step 4: Serve
Once baked, remove the hamburger steaks from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. The gravy will have thickened and infused the steaks with deep, savory flavors.
What to Serve with Amish Hamburger Steak Bake
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy gravy is perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes.
- Buttered Egg Noodles: Another classic Amish pairing that complements the rich flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: A simple side of roasted carrots or green beans adds a fresh contrast to the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up that delicious gravy!
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip searing the patties: Searing locks in the juices and adds a flavorful crust to the hamburger steaks.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the hamburger steaks and gravy a day in advance, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste your gravy before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially after adding the heavy cream.
Final Thoughts
The Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its tender hamburger steaks, rich caramelized onion gravy, and creamy texture, this is a meal that’s sure to bring comfort to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or preparing for a cozy weekend meal, this dish is a must-try.
Let the comforting flavors of this Amish-inspired recipe fill your home, and enjoy the satisfaction of a hearty, homemade dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds!