Here’s a comprehensive recipe profile for Poor Man’s Steak, covering all the requested sections:
Introduction
Poor Man’s Steak is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that transforms humble ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal. Made from seasoned ground beef shaped like steaks, then browned and baked in a savory gravy, this dish delivers classic homestyle flavor without the expense of traditional steak cuts. It’s a beloved recipe in frugal kitchens and country cookbooks alike.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish originated during the Great Depression and wartime eras when families needed to stretch limited resources. Inspired by the flavor and presentation of real steak, “Poor Man’s Steak” became a staple in American households for its affordability and satisfying taste. It reflects a time when ingenuity in the kitchen was essential, turning simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, and pantry spices into a meal that felt rich and fulfilling. The recipe remains popular in Midwestern and Southern communities as a nostalgic comfort food passed through generations.
Ingredients (Quantity)
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil or butter (for browning)
Gravy:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- Add ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika to the meat for added flavor.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley or thyme to the mixture.
- Use French onion soup or cream of onion instead of mushroom for variation.
- Top with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions after baking.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or mustard to the gravy for depth.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the ground beef—gentle mixing prevents dense patties.
- Chill patties before browning to help them hold shape better.
- Brown patties in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Scrape up the browned bits after searing to add flavor to the gravy.
- Cover the dish while baking to keep the meat tender and moist.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Shape mixture into oval patties resembling small steaks (about 6–8).
- In a skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Brown the patties on both sides (they do not need to be cooked through).
- Transfer patties to a baking dish in a single layer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the patties.
- Cover dish with foil and bake for 30–40 minutes until cooked through and gravy is bubbling.
- Optional: Uncover and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Description
Poor Man’s Steak offers tender, flavorful beef patties in a rich and savory mushroom gravy. The browned crust on the patties mimics the satisfying bite of seared steak, while the creamy gravy adds moisture and depth. The dish brings comfort and nostalgia with every forkful—simple yet deeply satisfying.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: ~360
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 105mg
(Varies with gravy ingredients and serving size)
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Steak proves that delicious, soul-warming food doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Rooted in thrift and tradition, it’s a classic example of culinary resourcefulness that satisfies hunger and brings families together. Whether you’re watching your grocery budget or just craving something cozy, this dish delivers every time.
Recommendation
Serve this dish over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles with a side of green beans or corn. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make great sandwich fillings the next day. For a crowd, double the batch and bake in a larger casserole dish.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten up this comfort classic, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey. Swap regular breadcrumbs with whole wheat, and use a reduced-fat soup or homemade gravy to control sodium and fat. Serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the richness, turning a nostalgic indulgence into a more health-conscious meal without losing the comfort-food feel.
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