Julie Recipes
Ingredients:
2 pounds of ground beef
1 diced onion
1 can of mushrooms (fresh mushrooms can also be used)
2 cups of crushed soda crackers
2 cups of milk
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 can of water (using the soup can for measurement)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, crushed soda crackers, milk, and salt and pepper. Mix until well blended. Pat the mixture into a square cake pan and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to set.
2. Preheat Oven:
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the meat mixture from the refrigerator and cut it into squares.
3. Brown the Meat Squares:
Coat each square with flour. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and brown the squares on all sides. This step adds a rich flavor and helps to lock in moisture.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, water (using the soup can for measurement), and mushrooms. This will create a creamy and flavorful sauce.
5. Bake:
Transfer the browned meat squares to a baking dish. Pour the mushroom sauce mixture over the meat. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 90 minutes. This slow cooking process ensures the meat is tender and flavorful.
6. Serve:
After baking, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips
Accompaniments: Amish Wedding Steak pairs perfectly with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. The rich mushroom sauce complements these sides wonderfully. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, or corn, add a fresh contrast to the dish.
Garnishing: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and added flavor. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a hint of freshness.
Portioning: Serve the steak squares with a generous ladle of sauce over the top. For a more formal presentation, consider plating the steak squares individually with the sauce drizzled artistically.
Temperature: Amish Wedding Steak is best served hot. Ensure the dish is heated through before serving, and allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Amish Wedding Steak will keep for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, freeze in individual portions to make reheating easier.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the meat and sauce.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid overcooking as it can dry out the meat. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Amish Wedding Steak fresh and flavorful, whether you’re serving it immediately or saving it for later.
