This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a warm, filling dish built on simple pantry ingredients and old-fashioned comfort. Juicy hamburger steaks rest on layers of tender potatoes and onions, all baked together in a rich, savory gravy that soaks into every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy, familiar, and deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect when you want something hearty without being complicated. It uses everyday ingredients, comes together with minimal prep, and bakes into a complete meal in one dish. The flavors are classic and comforting, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave true homestyle cooking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the hamburger steaks:
1½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 large egg
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
For the gravy and bake:
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
1½ cups beef broth
1 cup milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp butter or oil
Optional garnish:
2 tbsp chopped parsley
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 oval-shaped patties and set aside.
Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the hamburger patties and brown them on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. They do not need to be fully cooked. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, milk, and flour until smooth and free of lumps.
Grease a medium baking dish. Arrange the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom, followed by the sliced onions. Place the browned hamburger steaks on top of the vegetables. Slowly pour the gravy mixture evenly over the entire dish.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the gravy has thickened.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the gravy over each hamburger steak and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60 to 65 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes
Variations
You can add sliced mushrooms to the onion layer for extra depth of flavor. For a creamier texture, replace half of the milk with cooking cream. If you prefer more seasoning, a pinch of paprika or dried thyme blends well with the gravy.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in an oven-safe dish, cover, and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, adding a spoonful of broth or milk to keep the gravy from drying out.
FAQs
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best because they soften well and absorb the gravy nicely.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds texture, while peeling gives a smoother bite.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener.
Why are the patties browned first?
Browning adds flavor and helps the patties hold their shape during baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, let the dish cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
How do I prevent the gravy from being lumpy?
Whisk the flour thoroughly into the milk and broth before pouring it into the dish.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, carrots or green beans can be layered with the potatoes for extra nutrition.
What can I serve with this bake?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair well with this hearty dish.
How do I know when it’s done?
The dish is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the gravy is thick and bubbling.
Conclusion
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake is a timeless comfort meal that brings together rich flavors and simple preparation. With tender potatoes, savory hamburger steaks, and a creamy gravy baked to perfection, this dish is sure to become a dependable favorite at your table.
A comforting, old-fashioned bake featuring juicy hamburger steaks layered over sliced potatoes and onions, all smothered in a savory homemade gravy and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
1½ lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 large egg
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
1½ cups beef broth
1 cup milk
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tbsp butter or oil
2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into 4–6 oval patties.
In a skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat and brown the patties for 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, milk, and flour until smooth.
Grease a medium baking dish and layer sliced potatoes and onions on the bottom.
Place the browned patties over the vegetables and pour the gravy mixture evenly over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and gravy is thickened.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Add sliced mushrooms or vegetables like carrots for more depth.
Use cream instead of some milk for a richer sauce.
A pinch of paprika or thyme enhances the flavor.
For gluten-free, use GF breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
Make ahead up to 24 hours before baking for convenience.
