Thrifty Steak

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A budget-friendly, hearty meatloaf-style dish with a savory beef flavor accented by onion and pepper, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 Tbsp. minced onion
  • 1/2 c. milk
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1 c. Wheaties

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Shape the mixture into a T-bone steak about 1 inch thick.
  3. Place the shaped meat in a lightly greased shallow pan.
  4. Set the oven control at broil or 550°F.
  5. Broil the meat 3 to 4 inches from the heat for 5 minutes.
  6. Turn the meat over and broil the other side for an additional 5 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you don’t have Wheaties, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute. To ensure even cooking, make sure your broiler is preheated and keep an eye on the steak to avoid overcooking. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ground beef from dishes like Dried Beef-Macaroni Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Thrifty Steak with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A light gravy or mushroom sauce can enhance the dish further. This steak pairs beautifully with the flavors of Souper Spaghetti Casserole for a hearty dinner, making it a versatile option for any weeknight meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Thrifty Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the steak in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to maintain its moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Thrifty Steak contains roughly 47 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1777mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).

47 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.2g 4% DV
Total Fat 1.3g 2% DV
Carbs 8.2g 3% DV
Fiber 3.9g 14% DV
Sugar 3g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1776.9mg 77% DV
Potassium 299.3mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 0.3mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 21.6mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 94mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 23.3mg 2% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat used, so always ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

What can I serve with Thrifty Steak?

Thrifty Steak goes well with classic sides like steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, or even a simple pasta salad. You might also consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any juices.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal instead of Wheaties. Be sure to check the labels on all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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