Amish Hamburger Steak Bake

Here’s a breakdown of the Amish Hamburger Steak Bake recipe including the ingredients, construction, variations, and tips!

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

Construction:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
3. Season the Beef: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir to combine.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, heat 1 1/2 cups of milk over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the flour with the remaining 1/2 cup of milk to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this into the heated milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
5. Layer the Bake: In a baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes and onions. Pour the seasoned beef mixture over the potatoes. Then pour the milk sauce over the entire dish.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Variations:

• Cheese: Top the casserole with shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) in the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
• Vegetables: Add additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas to increase the flavor and nutrition.
• Seasoning: Experiment with seasoning variations such as paprika, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Ground Meat Substitutes: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as alternatives to beef for a lighter option.

Tips:

• Thinly Slice Potatoes: Thin slices will ensure the potatoes cook evenly and become tender.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, use it for browning the beef, as it retains heat well and helps create a crispy bottom layer.
• Double the Sauce: If you prefer more sauce or a creamier texture, you can double the milk and flour mixture.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Amish Hamburger Steak Bake!