Amish Harvest Casserole

Introduction

Amish Harvest Casserole is a hearty, soul-warming dish that brings together the wholesome flavors of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese. Rooted in Amish culinary traditions, this casserole embodies the principles of simplicity and comfort, offering a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and spirit. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.

This dish is not only delicious but also practical, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks. Its one-pan preparation simplifies cooking and cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen. The versatility of the ingredients means you can easily adapt the recipe to suit seasonal produce or personal preferences, ensuring that it remains a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal to end a long day or a dish to share with loved ones, Amish Harvest Casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Its timeless appeal continues to make it a beloved choice for those who appreciate home-cooked meals that are both nourishing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Filling

The combination of ground beef and a variety of vegetables provides a substantial meal that satisfies hunger and keeps you full longer.

2. Easy One-Pot Meal

With minimal preparation and cooking steps, this casserole simplifies the cooking process and reduces cleanup time.

3. Versatile Ingredients

The recipe allows for substitutions and additions, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.

4. Kid-Friendly

The mild flavors and cheesy topping make this casserole appealing to children and picky eaters alike.

5. Great for Leftovers

The casserole reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper

For the Vegetables:

• Carrots, sliced
• Potatoes, diced
• Corn kernels
• Green beans, chopped(recipespk.com)

For the Sauce:

• Cream of mushroom soup
• Dried thyme
• Dried parsley
• Shredded cheddar cheese(recipespk.com, cooking.teatimewithnaomi.com)

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based protein or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.(iamhomesteader.com)
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the casserole for added heat.
• Cheese Blend: Mix different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to enhance the aroma and taste.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion and garlic. Slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, and chop the green beans.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a slow cooker. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, corn kernels, and chopped green beans.(cooking.teatimewithnaomi.com)

Step 5: Add the Sauce

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Mix well to combine all ingredients.(cooking.teatimewithnaomi.com)

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.(cooking.teatimewithnaomi.com)

Step 7: Add Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.(cooking.teatimewithnaomi.com)

Step 8: Serve

Allow the casserole to stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Even Sizing: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Browning Meat: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Cheese Timing: Adding cheese too early can cause it to become tough; add it near the end of cooking for optimal meltiness.(myhomemaderecipe.com)
• Layering: Layering the ingredients in the slow cooker helps distribute flavors evenly.

How to Serve

Serve Amish Harvest Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs well with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the casserole completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Portion the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.(myhomemaderecipe.com)

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If reheating from frozen, ensure the casserole is fully thawed before heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.
2. Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup? You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using a roux and sautéed mushrooms.
3. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or squash.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free? The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
5. Can I cook this in the oven instead of a slow cooker? Yes, you can bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. How can I make this dish spicier? Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.
7. Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used; just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the casserole.
8. How do I prevent the cheese from becoming stringy? Add the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking and avoid stirring after adding it.
9. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Cook as directed the next day.
10. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, this casserole stores well and can be portioned for individual meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Amish Harvest Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together the flavors of home-cooked meals with the convenience of modern cooking methods. Its hearty ingredients and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy families and those seeking a satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, this casserole continues to deliver warmth and flavor, embodying the essence of Amish culinary traditions.

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