Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

A Heartwarming Harmony of Flavors on Your Table

When the leaves start to turn and the air fills with the comforting scents of autumn, it’s time to whip up an Amish Thanksgiving Casserole. This dish is the epitome of cozy comfort food, seamlessly blending creamy textures and hearty ingredients into one irresistible casserole. Not only is it delicious, but it also embodies simplicity—perfect for those busy holiday gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Did you know that casseroles have been a staple in Amish cooking for generations? Inspired by the communal spirit of gathering, this dish brings families together, making each bite feel like a warm hug. With its ability to be made ahead and baked at the last moment, the Amish Thanksgiving Casserole is an absolute timesaver during the holiday rush.

For those who love dishes that are just as satisfying as they are straightforward, think of this casserole as the simpler cousin to my creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Both are child-approved and family-friendly, allowing everyone to dig in with glee! With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll find yourself eagerly anticipating the comforting aroma wafting from your oven.

What is Amish Thanksgiving Casserole?

So, what’s in a name? The Amish Thanksgiving Casserole is not just your average casserole; it’s a delightful mix of ingredients that transport you straight to a cozy Amish kitchen. Imagine the laughter of family members gathered around a dining table, sharing stories as they savor this dish. The name evokes nostalgia, doesn’t it? It’s as if this casserole was designed to bring people together, proving that indeed, "the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach."

Have you ever wondered why meals like these hold such a special place in our hearts? Perhaps it’s the memories tied to them or the simplicity of gathering around comfort food. No need for formalities here; come as you are and enjoy every hearty bite!

Why You’ll Love This Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

There are three standout reasons why Amish Thanksgiving Casserole deserves a spot on your recipe list:

1. Heavenly Comfort: The casserole is packed with creamy goodness. As you dig in, you’ll find layers of flavor that combine tender vegetables, savory ingredients, and a luscious cream sauce that ties it all together.

2. Budget-Friendly: Making this casserole at home means significant savings compared to dining out or ordering in. With great quality ingredients and affordable staples, you’ll nourish your family without breaking the bank.

3. Delicious Variations: Think about adding toppings such as crispy breadcrumbs or melted cheese to elevate the flavors. These little touches turn an already wholesome casserole into something extraordinary.

If you enjoy creamy comfort food, you might also want to check out my wonderful Beef Stroganoff Casserole. It delivers on flavor and is equally simple to prepare, making it another family favorite!

How to Make Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

Quick Overview

Amish Thanksgiving Casserole is as easy to make as it is to love. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, you can have this dish ready for a weekday dinner or your festive feast. All you need are a few staples like vegetables, a protein source, and some cozy herbs.

Key Ingredients for Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken
• 1 cup of diced onions
• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, or corn)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups of cooked rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: breadcrumbs for extra crunch on top

Image of Ingredients Here

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Sauté the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey or chicken until fully cooked. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes.

3. Add onions: Toss in the diced onions and continue to sauté until they become translucent.

4. Mix in vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables, cooking until they’re heated through.

5. Combine leftovers: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and the meat-vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

7. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add some crunchy breadcrumbs for an extra layer of texture.

8. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your family and friends!

What to Serve Amish Thanksgiving Casserole With

To elevate your meal experience, pair your Amish Thanksgiving Casserole with a variety of sides. Think of serving a zesty garden salad for a refreshing contrast, or some hearty rolls to soak up any creamy goodness on your plate.

For drinks, why not bring out some sparkling apple cider or a rich hot chocolate? The warm flavors and cozy textures will certainly create a delightful atmosphere during your meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some top tips:

• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to change up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach can work wonders in this dish.

• Timing Adjustments: If you’re serving a big crowd, consider doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish.

• Common Mistakes: Watch out for overcooking the meat; it should remain tender and juicy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely with such a delicious dish), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place the casserole in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly; it can last for up to three months in the freezer!

To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Happy cooking, and may your dining table be filled with joy and laughter as you share this delightful Amish Thanksgiving Casserole!

Amish Thanksgiving Casserole

A heartwarming and budget-friendly casserole that blends creamy textures with hearty ingredients, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Comfort Food, Main Dish

Cuisine: American, Amish

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey or chicken
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, or corn)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: breadcrumbs for extra crunch on top

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey or chicken until fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onions and continue to sauté until they become translucent.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, cooking until they're heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and the meat-vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Optionally, add crispy breadcrumbs for extra texture.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For serving, pair with a zesty garden salad or hearty rolls. To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.