Amish Poor Man’s Steak Recipe

Introduction

Amish Poor Man’s Steak is a comforting and simple dish that transforms ground beef into tender, flavorful steaks. Slow-cooked with creamy mushroom soup, it’s perfect served over mashed potatoes or noodles for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed saltine crackers (about 30 crackers)
• 1/3 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 cans (10-3/4 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
• Hot cooked noodles or mashed potatoes, for serving
• Minced fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the crushed saltine crackers, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Step 2: Crumble the ground beef over the cracker mixture and mix lightly but thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Press the meat mixture evenly into an ungreased 9-inch square pan. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up.
4. Step 4: Once chilled, cut the mixture into 3-inch square steaks.
5. Step 5: Dredge each steak in the all-purpose flour, coating both sides.
6. Step 6: Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the steaks on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
7. Step 7: Transfer the browned steaks to a 3-quart slow cooker using a slotted spatula or spoon.
8. Step 8: Pour the undiluted cream of mushroom soup evenly over the steaks in the slow cooker.
9. Step 9: Cover and cook on high for about 4 hours, or until the meat is no longer pink and cooked through.
10. Step 10: Serve the steaks hot over cooked noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with minced fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free crackers for a different texture or dietary preference.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor.
• If you don’t have a slow cooker, bake the steaks in a covered casserole dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 hours.
• Fresh mushrooms sautéed and added to the soup can enhance the mushroom flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. These steaks also freeze well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey or ground pork can be used as a substitute, though cooking times and texture may vary slightly.

Do I have to use the slow cooker?

No, you can cook the steaks in an oven-safe dish covered tightly and baked at 350°F (175°C) until cooked through, about 1.5 hours.