Description
Comforting Amish harvest casserole brings hearty Midwestern charm straight to dinner tables with layers of creamy potatoes, savory meats, and crisp vegetables. Country kitchens shine through this soul-warming dish that connects family and tradition on one delicious plate.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup (150 g) cooked rice (white or brown)
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup (25 g) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsps melted butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preparation and Foundation: Warm the oven to 375F (190C). Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking vessel with cooking spray or butter, creating a non-stick surface for the hearty mixture.
- Meat and Aromatics Transformation: Sizzle ground beef or turkey in a spacious skillet over medium heat until thoroughly browned. Eliminate excess fat, then introduce diced onions and minced garlic, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic essence for 2-3 minutes.
- Vegetable Integration: Fold zucchini and carrots into the meat medley, gently cooking for 3-4 minutes until vegetables reach a tender state. Enhance with a harmonious blend of salt, pepper, and thyme, creating a robust flavor profile.
- Casserole Composition: In a generous mixing bowl, unite cooked rice, the seasoned meat-vegetable blend, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients and consistent flavor throughout.
- Baking Preparation: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer. If desired, craft a crispy topping by combining breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, sprinkling generously across the surface.
- Culinary Transformation: Slide the casserole into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch for a bubbling texture and golden-brown crown indicating complete cooking and optimal flavor development.
- Serving Finale: Remove from oven and allow a brief resting period. Optional garnish of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch to this comforting Amish-inspired dish.
Notes
- Ensure ground meat is thoroughly browned and crumbled to develop rich, deep flavor and prevent any raw meat texture in the casserole.
- Pat zucchini and carrots dry before adding to prevent excess liquid that could make the casserole watery and dilute the overall taste.
- Allow cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth, even distribution and prevent clumping in the casserole.
- Swap ground meat with plant-based alternatives, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, or substitute cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version for dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg