If you’re craving a heartwarming, wholesome dish that brings together comforting flavors and a touch of nostalgia, look no further than the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with a lovely mix of tender ground meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re gathering with family or simply want a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole combines simple ingredients in a way that feels both special and effortlessly satisfying.

Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe thrives on wholesome, everyday ingredients that pack incredible flavor and texture. Each item plays a crucial role, from the savory richness of the ground meat to the vibrant crunch of fresh veggies and the cozy creaminess of the soup base.

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey: The protein base adds hearty flavor and satisfying texture.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick that brightens the entire casserole.
1 cup carrots, diced: Adds natural sweetness and beautiful color.
1 cup celery, chopped: Brings a subtle earthiness and crunch.
1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced: Adds comfort and a creamy bite when baked.
1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta: The classic pasta that soaks up all the savory juices.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Lends a bright, tangy contrast and juiciness.
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery): Creates a lusciously creamy texture and rich flavor.
½ cup milk: Adds smoothness to the sauce.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in perfect balance.
½ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and spice.
1 tsp dried thyme: A fragrant herb that brightens and elevates the dish.
½ tsp paprika: Adds a warm note and subtle smokiness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping): Melts beautifully into a golden, bubbly crust.
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): Freshness and a pop of color to finish.

How to Make Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First up, get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Setting this stage early means your casserole will slide right out, perfectly baked.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef or turkey until it’s no longer pink and starts giving off that delicious meaty aroma. Then, toss in diced onions and garlic. Sauté them for a couple of minutes until they soften and become wonderfully fragrant—this step builds the savory foundation for your Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Next, stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. These fresh veggies not only add nutrition but also bring vibrant colors and textures to the mix. Cooking them for about five minutes helps start softening the vegetables, making sure they’ll bake through nicely later on.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk to create that creamy, comforting sauce. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Now, stir the uncooked pasta into the sauce and veggie mixture until everything is well combined. The pasta will soak up the savory sauce during baking, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Cover it with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 45 minutes. This slow baking softens the pasta and tender vegetables to cozy perfection—the hallmark of a great Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe.

Step 7: Add the Cheese Topping (Optional)

Uncover the casserole and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top if you’re using it. Pop it back into the oven uncovered for about 10 more minutes, until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then it’s ready to be served warm. This dish tastes best fresh from the oven, with all those flavors harmonizing beautifully together.

How to Serve Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a burst of color and a lovely fresh note that cuts through the richness, elevating the dish’s presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green salads to add crispness and brightness, or a side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach to bring some vibrant greens to your plate. The creamy, hearty casserole is balanced perfectly by lighter, fresh sides.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Or scoop portions alongside crusty artisan bread to soak up every last delicious bit of sauce. Whichever way you present it, this dish is sure to impress with its rustic warmth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making your next meal just as tasty.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. For best results, cool completely, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, microwave portions on medium power in intervals to prevent drying out. Adding a small splash of milk before reheating helps keep the casserole moist and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and creates a lighter version of the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe without sacrificing flavor.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you prefer, cream of celery soup is a great alternative that still lends that creamy texture and subtle savory flavor to the dish.

Is it necessary to use uncooked pasta in this recipe?

Using uncooked pasta allows it to absorb all the sauce and flavors as it bakes, but if you prefer, you can use slightly undercooked pasta to reduce baking time.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in peas, corn, or green beans to bulk up the veggie content and add even more color and nutrition.

What type of cheese works best for the topping?

Sharp cheddar cheese melts well and gives that delightful savory crust, but you can also try a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, melty finish.

Final Thoughts

This Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves a comforting and hearty meal made from simple, real ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes you home and brings everyone together around the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your kitchen too!

Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe

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4.2 from 70 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Amish Harvest Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish that combines ground meat, fresh vegetables, pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures with tender potatoes, savory ground beef or turkey, and a cheesy topping that bakes to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables

1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced

Dairy and Canned Goods

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
½ cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Pantry and Spices

1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika

Garnish

Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Brown the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until it is no longer pink. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
Add vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, chopped celery, and diced potatoes. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes to start softening the vegetables and blending the flavors.
Make the sauce: Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Combine with pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta, mixing thoroughly so pasta is evenly distributed throughout the sauce and vegetable mixture.
Assemble and bake: Pour the entire mixture into the greased casserole dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, until the pasta and potatoes are tender.
Optional cheese topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh touch.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or vice versa depending on preference or dietary needs.
Feel free to use cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile.
The cheese topping is optional but adds a deliciously melty and golden crust to the casserole.
Make sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil to prevent drying during baking.
This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American