There’s something truly magical about Amish cooking – it brings with it a sense of warmth, tradition, and simplicity that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. This Amish-inspired cheesy beef and potato casserole is no different. The recipe is hearty and packed with layers of flavor, and it’s the kind of dish that’ll have everyone around the table going back for seconds (or thirds!).
When I first came across this recipe, it was shared by a dear Amish friend who brought it to a potluck at my home. I remember the way the dish practically disappeared before my eyes as guests lined up for more, eager to figure out what made it so irresistible. It’s that perfect balance of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. This casserole is not only an incredible dish for family gatherings, but it’s also perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something hearty to feed a crowd.
Whether it’s a snowy winter evening or a crisp fall day, this dish offers comfort like no other. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make—even if you’re not a seasoned cook. So, let’s dive into what makes this recipe special and why you’ll want to add it to your meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty and Comforting: This casserole is a warm and filling meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in on a cozy evening at home.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is as beginner-friendly as it gets.
- Customizable: While it’s delicious as is, you can add your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and reheat it for busy weeknight dinners—it’s just as good the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup turkey ham, diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Amish-Inspired Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole
This recipe is straightforward and fun to make. Let’s break it down step by step:
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, followed by the diced onion. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then season the beef mixture with paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes and Sauce
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds (about ⅛ inch thick). This ensures that they cook evenly.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creamy sauce will tie all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Begin layering the casserole:
- Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread a portion of the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Drizzle some of the soup mixture over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top. Scatter the diced turkey ham over the cheese layer for a savory touch.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear before your eyes!
Helpful Tips:
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Using a mandoline slicer will help you achieve consistent potato slices, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Make It Your Own: Add in vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variety: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different cheesy profile.
- Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test the potatoes before removing the casserole from the oven. They should be tender but not falling apart.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish-Inspired
- Diet: Beef-based
Notes:
- For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 10–15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm dinner rolls.
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Conclusion
There’s something special about recipes like this one—they’re not just meals, they’re memories waiting to be made. Whether you’re serving this cheesy beef and potato casserole to your family, bringing it to a potluck, or simply making it for yourself on a chilly evening, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a recipe that might just become a new favorite in your household! Don’t forget to share this with loved ones—they’ll thank you for it. Enjoy!
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Amish-Inspired Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole
Description
There’s something truly magical about Amish cooking – it brings with it a sense of warmth, tradition, and simplicity that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. This Amish-inspired cheesy beef and potato casserole is no different. The recipe is hearty and packed with layers of flavor, and it’s the kind of dish that’ll have everyone around the table going back for seconds (or thirds!).
When I first came across this recipe, it was shared by a dear Amish friend who brought it to a potluck at my home. I remember the way the dish practically disappeared before my eyes as guests lined up for more, eager to figure out what made it so irresistible. It’s that perfect balance of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. This casserole is not only an incredible dish for family gatherings, but it’s also perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something hearty to feed a crowd.
Whether it’s a snowy winter evening or a crisp fall day, this dish offers comfort like no other. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make—even if you’re not a seasoned cook. So, let’s dive into what makes this recipe special and why you’ll want to add it to your meal rotation!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup turkey ham, diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, followed by the diced onion. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then season the beef mixture with paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Potatoes and Sauce
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin, even rounds (about ⅛ inch thick). This ensures that they cook evenly.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This creamy sauce will tie all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Begin layering the casserole:
- Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread a portion of the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Drizzle some of the soup mixture over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top. Scatter the diced turkey ham over the cheese layer for a savory touch.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear before your eyes!
Notes
- For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
