Introduction
Warm up your kitchen and your heart with this delightful Amish Harvest Casserole. This dish is a comforting blend of hearty ingredients, showcasing the best of home-cooked love. With layers of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping, it’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table. Perfect for a family gathering or as a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is as wholesome as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), filling your home with warmth and anticipation.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and savory.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the corn, diced carrots, diced potatoes, undrained diced tomatoes, green beans, thyme, basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Pour the vibrant mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this creamy blend over the casserole ensuring every bite will be rich.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, followed by a generous sprinkle of breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
Notes or Tips
This casserole can be customized to your liking! Feel free to swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as peas or bell peppers. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days, making it great for meal prep or hearty lunches. Reheat in the oven for that freshly baked taste!
Cooking Techniques
For this casserole, browning the meat properly is key to developing rich flavors. Sautéing the onions and garlic together creates a fragrant base that enhances the overall taste. When layering the casserole, make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite. Lastly, allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking will help it set up nicely for serving.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Is it possible to freeze the Amish Harvest Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before baking or reheat directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Conclusion
The Amish Harvest Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, filled with hearty goodness and nostalgia. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savored on your own. With its bounty of flavors and textures, your heart (and stomach) will surely be satisfied. Bake up this comforting masterpiece and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table!