INTRODUCTION
Amish Harvest Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines tender meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness. It hails from the heart of Pennsylvania, where the Amish people have been known for their hearty and satisfying meals. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. It’s filling, nutritious, and brings a touch of home cooking to any table. Let’s explore why this dish deserves a spot in your kitchen.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
One of the best reasons to love Amish Harvest Casserole is its simplicity. You can prepare it with easy-to-find ingredients, and it doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even tastier when reheated. With ground beef and a variety of vegetables, it’s a complete meal in one dish. Plus, the addition of melted cheddar cheese gives it a rich, indulgent touch. This casserole provides warmth and comfort, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation.
HOW TO MAKE Amish Harvest Casserole
Making Amish Harvest Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. You can easily follow the steps to create this delightful dish for your family. As it cooks, your home will be filled with delicious aromas that make everyone hungry and excited for dinner.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make this casserole, you will need the following tools:
- A large skillet for browning the meat
- A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables
- A slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A mixing spoon
- A serving spoon
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
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Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.
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Add Onions and Garlic: Once the beef is cooked, add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook these ingredients until they become soft and fragrant.
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Transfer to Slow Cooker: After cooking, transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker.
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Add Vegetables, Soup, and Seasonings: Next, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, corn kernels, chopped green beans, cream of mushroom soup, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the slow cooker.
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Cook It Slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW. Let it cook for 6 to 8 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
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Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, uncover the slow cooker and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt into the casserole.
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Let Stand: After cooking, let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors settle.
HOW TO SERVE Amish Harvest Casserole
When it’s time to serve, scoop generous portions of the Amish Harvest Casserole onto plates. You can serve it hot, straight from the slow cooker. The melted cheddar on top adds a delicious touch. Pair it with a simple salad or some fresh bread to round out the meal. Remember, it’s a dish that can stand on its own due to its hearty ingredients.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Amish Harvest Casserole
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. If you want to freeze the casserole, make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the oven or microwave.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
For a complete meal, consider serving Amish Harvest Casserole with:
- A fresh green salad topped with your favorite dressing.
- Homemade bread or rolls to soak up the savory sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- A side of coleslaw for a crunchy texture.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to get creative with this casserole. Here are some variations you can try:
- Meat Substitutes: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Vegetable Swaps: Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas, for extra flavor and color.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I make Amish Harvest Casserole without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook it on the stovetop in a large pot, simmering for about 30-45 minutes, or bake it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 1 hour.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Using frozen vegetables is a great time-saver, and they will work just as well in this recipe.
3. How can I make this casserole healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cheese, use leaner meat, and add more vegetables to boost the nutritional value.
4. How do I reheat the leftovers?
You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. Make sure it is heated through before serving.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Amish Harvest Casserole
If you want to save time, you can prepare Amish Harvest Casserole ahead of time. Brown the ground beef and chop all the vegetables. Store everything in the fridge, and combine it in the slow cooker the next day. This way, a hearty, delicious meal can be ready with minimal effort on a busy day. Planning ahead makes weeknight dinners easier and more enjoyable.
By following this guide, you will create a satisfying Amish Harvest Casserole that your family will love. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout meal that warms both the heart and the tummy. Enjoy this delightful dish and all the hearty goodness it brings to your dinner table!
Amish Harvest Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker.
- Add sliced carrots, diced potatoes, corn, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, and parsley to the slow cooker.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW. Cook for 6 to 8 hours until vegetables are tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, uncover and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt.
- Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes before serving.