Poor Man’s Steaks

Poor Man’s Steaks

Poor Man’s Steaks are a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for those who want a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Made from simple ingredients, this recipe transforms everyday food staples into a savory and comforting creation. Whether you serve them for dinner or enjoy them as leftovers, these steaks are sure to please a crowd.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food without spending too much. Ground beef is a budget-friendly protein, and when mixed with crushed saltine crackers and spices, it turns into a flavorful dish that feels indulgent. Plus, the mushroom gravy adds a rich and creamy touch that enhances the whole experience. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

How to Make Poor Man’s Steaks

Making Poor Man’s Steaks is simple and straightforward. Here’s how you do it:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups saltine crackers, crushed
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup flour for dredging
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk for gravy
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, 1 cup milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into patties.
3. Dredge the patties in flour, shaking off the excess.
4. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
5. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
6. For the mushroom gravy, in a separate saucepan, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup with 1 1/2 cups milk and heat over medium heat. Stir in chopped parsley.
7. Serve the patties with mushroom gravy poured over the top.

How to Serve Poor Man’s Steaks

Serve Poor Man’s Steaks hot, topped generously with mushroom gravy. They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget some fresh bread to soak up all that delicious gravy!

How to Store Poor Man’s Steaks

To store leftovers, place the Poor Man’s Steaks in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the cooked patties and gravy for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Poor Man’s Steaks

• For extra flavor, let the patties rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking; add more cayenne for heat or more garlic powder for a stronger flavor.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the patties to ensure they brown nicely.

Variation

You can easily customize Poor Man’s Steaks by adding different spices or incorporating cooked onions or bell peppers into the beef mixture. For a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as substitutes for ground beef.

2. What if I don’t have saltine crackers?
You can use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute for saltine crackers.

3. Can I make the mushroom gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mushroom gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving!

Enjoy this easy and affordable recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table!