This Amish Hamburger Steak Casserole is the kind of comfort food I reach for when I want something hearty, simple, and deeply satisfying. Made with seasoned ground beef patties baked in a creamy mushroom gravy, it’s the perfect cozy dinner to feed a hungry crowd or stock the fridge with leftovers that reheat beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this casserole brings together bold flavors and a creamy texture with almost no fuss. It uses basic pantry ingredients and transforms them into a filling dish that reminds me of home-cooked meals from childhood. The patties are flavorful and juicy, and when baked in the creamy mushroom gravy, they become incredibly tender. I also appreciate how versatile it is—I can switch up the soup or even add cheese for a new twist.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
2 lb ground beef
-
1½ cups cracker crumbs (e.g., buttery crackers or saltines)
-
1 cup milk (for the meat mixture)
-
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
-
½ tsp onion powder
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
-
Salt & black pepper, to taste
-
¼ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging patties)
-
2 cans (approx. 20 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
-
1½ cups milk (for the gravy)
directions
-
I start by preheating the oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
-
In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, cracker crumbs, 1 cup of milk, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. I mix gently—just enough to bring everything together.
-
Then I shape the mixture into 7 to 9 hamburger steak patties.
-
I lightly dredge each patty in flour and shake off the excess.
-
In a skillet over medium-high heat, I brown the patties for 2–3 minutes per side. They don’t need to be cooked through, just a nice sear.
-
I transfer the browned patties into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soups and the remaining 1½ cups of milk. I pour this creamy gravy over the patties.
-
I cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then I uncover and bake another 5–10 minutes until the gravy is bubbling.
-
I let it rest for a few minutes before serving, usually over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 7 to 9 servings, depending on how big I make the patties. It takes roughly 10 minutes of prep time and 35–40 minutes of cooking time, for a total of around 45–50 minutes. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner or weekend comfort dish.
Variations
When I want to mix it up, I sometimes substitute cream of mushroom with cream of chicken or golden mushroom soup. If I’m craving a cheesy touch, I sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the final few minutes of baking. For a gluten-free version, I use gluten-free crackers, flour, and soup—it works just as well.
storage/reheating
Leftovers store great in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. I just reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm everything in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through. It also freezes well—perfect for batch cooking or future meals.
FAQs
What kind of crackers work best in the meat mixture?
I usually go for buttery crackers like Ritz because they add a rich flavor, but saltines work fine too. For gluten-free needs, there are great alternative crackers that hold up well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. I often prepare the patties and assemble the casserole in the morning, keep it in the fridge, then bake it when I’m ready. I just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. I freeze individual portions or the whole dish after baking. When ready to eat, I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What can I serve with this casserole?
I like to serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice. A side of green beans or a fresh salad also pairs well to balance the richness.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Sure—I’ve added sautéed mushrooms, onions, or even frozen peas to the gravy before baking. It’s a great way to get extra veggies in.
Conclusion
This Amish Hamburger Steak Casserole is one of those reliable, comforting meals I come back to again and again. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for feeding the whole family or just stocking up on leftovers for easy lunches. Whether I stick to the classic or try one of the variations, it always hits the spot.
Print
Amish Hamburger Steak Casserole
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes (30 minutes covered, plus 5–10 minutes uncovered)
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 7–9 servings
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American / Amish
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty, comforting casserole of seasoned hamburger steaks baked in creamy mushroom gravy.
Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1½ cups cracker crumbs (e.g., buttery crackers or saltines)
- 1 cup milk (for the meat mixture)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup all‑purpose flour (for dredging patties)
- 2 cans (approx. 20 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups milk (for the gravy)
<li½ tsp onion=”” powder<=”” li=””>
</li½ tsp>
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, cracker crumbs, 1 cup milk, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper—mix gently until just combined.
- Shape mixture into 7–9 patties.
- Lightly dredge each patty in flour, tapping off excess.
- Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; brown patties 2–3 minutes per side (they need not be fully cooked).
- Transfer browned patties to a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soups and remaining 1½ cups milk; pour over the patties.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until the gravy is bubbly.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving. Serve over egg noodles, rice, or potatoes.
Notes
- Use buttery crackers for extra flavor; saltines or gluten‑free options work too (for gluten‑free, also use GF flour and soup). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Season flour with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, and sprinkle extra pepper on top before baking. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Yield is approximately 7–9 patties; serves around 7–9 people. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Leftovers store well in the fridge—reheat in microwave or oven. Freezes nicely too. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Can substitute cream of chicken or golden mushroom soup for variety. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- For cheesier variation, add shredded cheese on top during the final bake. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy (approx.)
- Calories: 480 kcal (approx.)