Sure! Here’s a delicious and hearty recipe for Amish Hamburger Steak Bake with Mushrooms and Thyme that will impress your guests with its rich flavors and comforting texture. This dish combines savory hamburger steaks, tender mushrooms, and fragrant thyme, all baked to perfection for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Amish Hamburger Steak Bake with Mushrooms and Thyme
Ingredients:
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For the Hamburger Steaks:
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1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean for the best flavor)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if you prefer)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 egg
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
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For the Mushroom Gravy:
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 small onion, thinly sliced
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2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white button mushrooms or cremini work well)
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1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 ½ cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon flour (optional, to thicken the gravy)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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For Baking:
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
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Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Hamburger Steaks
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Make the Hamburger Steak Mixture:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Add the egg and breadcrumbs (if using), and mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the patties may become tough.
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Form the Patties:
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Divide the beef mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. You want them to be about ¾-inch thick.
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Cook the Hamburger Steaks:
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the hamburger patties to the skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
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Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and set them aside.
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Step 2: Make the Mushroom Gravy
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Cook the Onions and Mushrooms:
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In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
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Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
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Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, cooking for another 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
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Create the Gravy:
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Once the mushrooms have cooked down, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour (optional, for thicker gravy) over the mixture and stir to combine. This helps thicken the sauce.
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Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to ensure the flour dissolves without clumping.
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Add Worcestershire sauce for a depth of flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer, letting it cook for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
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Step 3: Assemble the Bake
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Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease the Baking Dish:
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
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Arrange the Hamburger Steaks:
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Place the cooked hamburger steaks in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
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Pour the Mushroom Gravy:
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Pour the mushroom gravy mixture over the hamburger steaks, ensuring the patties are well-coated with the gravy.
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Bake:
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and ensure the patties are fully cooked through.
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Step 4: Serve
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Garnish (Optional):
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Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a nice touch.
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Serve:
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Serve your Amish Hamburger Steak Bake with Mushrooms and Thyme alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. The rich, savory gravy and tender hamburger steaks will make this a hit at any dinner table.
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Tips and Variations:
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For a Lighter Option: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken in place of the ground beef for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust seasoning and cooking time as needed.
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Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the hamburger steaks with plant-based burger patties or mushroom patties and use vegetable broth for the gravy.
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Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to the gravy, such as carrots or celery, for additional flavor and texture.
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Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the hamburger patties and gravy ahead of time and assemble the bake just before you’re ready to cook. It will save time when entertaining guests.
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Add a Cheese Topping: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) on top of the bake during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy finish.
Why This Recipe Works:
This Amish Hamburger Steak Bake combines two beloved comfort foods: savory hamburger steaks and rich, flavorful mushroom gravy. The thyme adds a delicious earthy depth to the dish, perfectly complementing the richness of the beef and the umami of the mushrooms. Baking the dish brings everything together, creating a comforting, family-friendly meal that will surely impress at any dinner gathering.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or dinner parties. The hearty flavors, along with the ease of preparation, make it a great choice when you want something filling and satisfying without too much fuss. You can pair it with a variety of sides to complement the dish, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green vegetable.
Enjoy making this Amish Hamburger Steak Bake with Mushrooms and Thyme at your next dinner gathering! Your guests will surely go crazy for the flavors and the comforting, homey feel of this dish.
