Before diving into the rich flavors of Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy, let’s chat about what you can pair with this hearty dish. Whether you’re looking to complement your meal or create a full menu, these suggestions can elevate your dining experience: Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Green Beans, Garlic Bread, Side Salad etc.
I remember the first time I stumbled upon Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and I was looking for something comforting and filling without breaking the bank. The term “poor man’s steak” intrigued me. How could something so inviting be labeled as poor man’s food? The dish promised savory ground beef mixed with earthy mushrooms, and I was sold.
In a world where dining out can feel ludicrously expensive, having a hearty meal at home is a tremendous win. This dish not only offers comfort; it also provides a sense of satisfaction. Today, I want to share this recipe with you, breaking down its components, the steps to prepare it, and a sprinkle of insights that make it truly special.
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What is Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy?
Poor Man’s Steak isn’t about sacrificing flavor or feeling deprived. It’s a genius way to maximize taste with accessible ingredients.
Made primarily with ground beef, it mimics a classic steak experience but at a fraction of the price.
The dish gets its charm from the mushroom gravy. Enveloping the ground beef patties in a rich, creamy sauce, it transforms a humble meal into something remarkable. You can almost hear the sizzling sound of those patties hitting the skillet! Add mushrooms and cream to the mix, and suddenly, you have a dish that is indulgent yet easy to whip up.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity: The ingredients are everyday items found in most kitchens. It eliminates the daunting task of special grocery trips.
Flavorful: The combination of ground beef and mushroom gravy provides a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Seasoned just right, they hit all the taste notes.
Economical: Ground beef is an affordable protein, and you won’t need much to make a satisfying amount.
Versatile: You can easily adjust the recipe based on available ingredients or personal preferences, making it adaptable for family meals or casual gatherings.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Gather the following ingredients to create your Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy:
For the Ground Beef Mixture:
- 2 lbs (0.9 kg) of ground beef
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) of coconut flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) of water
- 2 tsp (10 mL) of finely chopped garlic
- 1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) of sea salt
- 1 tsp (5 mL) of Italian herb blend
- 1/2 tsp (2 mL) of cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup (75 mL) of a gluten-free bake mix or a blend of almond and coconut flour
- 2 tbsp (30 mL) of unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) of finely grated Parmesan cheese
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) of unsalted butter
- 1 lb (0.45 kg) of sliced button mushrooms
- 8 oz (250 g) of cream cheese
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) of almond milk
- 1/2 cup (125 mL) of water
- 2 tbsp (30 mL) of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp (30 mL) of brown gravy seasoning
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) of dried parsley
- 2 tsp (10 mL) of onion powder
- 1/2 tsp (2 mL) of garlic salt
How to Make Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy
This recipe is surprisingly easy. Just gather your ingredients and let’s get started.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, coconut flour, egg, water, garlic, sea salt, Italian herbs, cracked black pepper, and a bit of olive oil. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing as it can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Shape the mixture into flat patties about 3/4 inch thick. They should fit comfortably in your skillet. You should have about six patties.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until browned. Flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 4: Remove and Set Aside
Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them with foil to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.
Step 5: Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Throw in the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown—approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
Step 6: Prepare the Gravy
Once the mushrooms are browned, lower the heat. Add cream cheese, heavy cream, almond milk, and water. Stir until combined. Then season with Worcestershire sauce and brown gravy seasoning. Mix in dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic salt.
Step 7: Bring it Together
Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. If it gets too thick, add a pinch of water. Return the patties to the skillet, covering them with the gravy. Let them warm together for a couple of minutes.
Tips for Making the Best Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality beef make a difference in flavor.
Don’t Rush the Mushrooms: Brown them nicely for a deeper flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust as you go. Cooking is a personal experience.
Rest the Patties: Letting the patties rest after cooking will help retain their juices.
Serve Hot: This meal is best enjoyed fresh. Warm gravy over warm patties is heavenly.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cool them to room temperature. Then, store the patties and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the gravy if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Information
How Would I Recommend Serving Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy?
Here are some delightful serving suggestions:
With Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Pairing this dish with creamy mashed potatoes creates a comforting combination. The potatoes soak up the flavor of the gravy perfectly.
On a Toasted Bun
Create a sandwich by placing the patties on toasted buns. The richness of the gravy complements the crunch of the toasted bread wonderfully.
Over Egg Noodles
Serve it over egg noodles for a tasty twist. The noodles will absorb the sauce and add another layer of flavor.
With a Side of Roasted Veggies
Roasted veggies add color and nutritional value. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini work well together, roasting alongside the patties for added ease.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
If you’re missing some ingredients, here are a few alternatives:
Ground Turkey Instead of Beef
If you want a leaner option, ground turkey can work in place of ground beef. It takes a bit less time to cook.
Cream Cheese Substitutes
Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese can substitute for cream cheese without too much change in texture.
Coconut Flour
If coconut flour isn’t on hand, regular flour works, but be sure to adjust the amount since it absorbs moisture differently.
Almond Milk
Any plant-based milk, such as soy or oat milk, can take the role of almond milk and offers similar creaminess.
Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- skillet
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 2 lbs 0.9 kg of ground beef
- 1 tbsp 15 mL of coconut flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup 60 mL of water
- 2 tsp 10 mL of finely chopped garlic
- 1 1/2 tsp 7 mL of sea salt
- 1 tsp 5 mL of Italian herb blend
- 1/2 tsp 2 mL of cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup 75 mL of Gluten-Free Bake Mix 2, OR 1/3 cup (75 mL) of almond flour combined with 1 tbsp (15 mL) of coconut flour
- 2 tbsp 30 mL of unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp 15 mL of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup 60 mL of finely grated Parmesan cheese
Mushroom Gravy:
- 1 tbsp 15 mL of unsalted butter
- 1 lb 0.45 kg of sliced button mushrooms
- 8 oz 250 g of cream cheese
- 1/2 cup 125 mL of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup 125 mL of almond milk
- 1/2 cup 125 mL of water
- 2 tbsp 30 mL of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp 30 mL of brown gravy seasoning
- 1 tbsp 15 mL of dried parsley
- 2 tsp 10 mL of onion powder
- 1/2 tsp 2 mL of garlic salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, coconut flour, egg, water, garlic, sea salt, Italian herbs, cracked black pepper, and a bit of olive oil. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing as it can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Form the Patties
- Shape the mixture into flat patties about 3/4 inch thick. They should fit comfortably in your skillet. You should have about six patties.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
- In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until browned. Flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 4: Remove and Set Aside
- Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover them with foil to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.
Step 5: Sauté the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. Throw in the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown—approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
Step 6: Prepare the Gravy
- Once the mushrooms are browned, lower the heat. Add cream cheese, heavy cream, almond milk, and water. Stir until combined. Then season with Worcestershire sauce and brown gravy seasoning. Mix in dried parsley, onion powder, and garlic salt.
Step 7: Bring it Together
- Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. If it gets too thick, add a pinch of water. Return the patties to the skillet, covering them with the gravy. Let them warm together for a couple of minutes.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by opting for gluten-free bread crumbs, flour mix, and ensuring all sauces are gluten-free.
How can I enhance the mushroom flavor?
Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar during the cooking of the mushrooms for added umami.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as alternatives.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and gravy in advance. Store separately and combine when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this meal?
Absolutely. Freeze the patties and gravy separately. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Steak with Mushroom Gravy embodies comfort and satisfaction without draining your wallet. It’s a dish that brings the whole family together, providing warmth and indulgence on a regular weeknight or a special occasion.
Cooking this dish invites creativity, allowing you to adjust it as you see fit. From choosing your sides to experimenting with ingredients, the journey of making Poor Man’s Steak is part of the joy. So, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process. Your plates, and your family, will thank you!
