If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening, you are going to love this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe. Bursting with wholesome vegetables, tender pasta, and savory ground meat all melded together in a creamy, flavorful sauce, this casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It captures the essence of homestyle Amish cooking, delivering hearty satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or want delicious leftovers for the week, this dish is pure autumnal magic on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe is how each simple ingredient plays a vital role in creating a balanced, flavorful dish. From the earthy potatoes and carrots to the savory meat and creamy soup base, these essentials combine to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with delightful textures.
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey: Your protein base, offering rich flavor and a hearty bite that anchors the dish.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Just enough to lift the flavors with a subtle, aromatic punch.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: For vibrant color and a tender, natural sweetness after baking.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Contributes a slight crunch and freshness to keep things lively.
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced: The perfect hearty vegetable that softens and soaks up the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta: Provides comforting carbs and heartiness that holds everything together.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: A touch of acidity and juiciness that brightens the casserole.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery): Creates the velvety, classic farmhouse sauce that binds all components deliciously.
- ½ cup milk: Adds creaminess without overpowering other flavors.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential to enhance and balance all tastes in the casserole.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Provides gentle warmth and seasoning throughout.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: The subtle herb that brings a lovely earthiness and complexity.
- ½ tsp paprika: A mild smoky note that rounds out the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping): Melts into a gorgeous golden crust that adds savory richness.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional): A fresh pop of green and herbal brightness to finish.
How to Make Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Then, in a large skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or turkey until it’s no longer pink. This step locks in the savory meaty flavor your casserole needs. Once the meat is browned, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them together for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. These aromatics form the flavor base that makes the dish so irresistible.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, add in the carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the skillet. Cooking these for about 5 minutes helps them start to soften while mingling their natural sweetness and freshness with the meat and aromatics. This step thickens the flavor foundation and ensures your vegetables are tender but not mushy by the time the casserole is done.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery), milk, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Stir everything together so the sauce comes alive, blending the herbs and spices with the earthy vegetables and meat. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes; this helps the flavors marry and the sauce thicken slightly, preparing it to perfectly coat your pasta and veggies.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Bake
Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the savory mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Transfer everything into your prepared casserole dish and cover with foil to trap moisture. Bake for 45 minutes, allowing the pasta and potatoes to cook through and absorb those wonderful turkey and veggie flavors. The foil keeps the casserole moist and tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping for Extra Comfort
If you’re a cheese lover, don’t skip this step! Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top, and pop it back into the oven uncovered for another 10 minutes. This creates a bubbly, golden crust that crisps up just right, adding a luscious contrast to the creamy interior.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit briefly before serving so it settles nicely. If you want, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pretty, fresh finish. Then dig in and savor every comforting bite of your homemade Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a touch of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness of the casserole. For an extra special touch, you might consider a light grating of fresh Parmesan or a drizzle of warm butter infused with a hint of garlic.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal all on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides like a green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra texture. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to mop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, turn this tasty Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe into individual servings by baking it in muffin tins for cute portioned casseroles. Another fun idea is layering the casserole in clear glass dishes to show off its colorful layers, making your dinner table just as inviting as the taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole reheats beautifully and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to preserve freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole before baking for quick meals later. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will stay at peak quality for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 to 30 minutes depending on portion size. You can also microwave single servings, stirring halfway to heat evenly, though the oven method helps keep that creamy texture and crisp top alive.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe, offering a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. Just brown it the same way as you would beef.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply swap the ground meat for hearty plant-based protein like lentils or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth or a vegetarian cream soup. The veggies and pasta base remain deliciously filling.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, bake it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar is classic and melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar for a different twist.
Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, small pasta like rotini, shells, or penne work great in the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe. Just be sure to keep the cooking times similar and the pasta uncooked before baking to ensure it absorbs the sauce properly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe with the people you love. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with warmth and your heart with comfort. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give this beloved, wholesome casserole a try—you’ll soon see why it becomes a go-to favorite for cozy dinners and family gatherings alike.
