If you’re searching for a cozy, hearty meal that brings a burst of autumn flavors right to your table, look no further than this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe. It’s a wonderfully inviting dish that combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and vibrant peas all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy embrace. This casserole is a true celebration of simple ingredients working together to create comfort in every bite, perfect for a family dinner or sharing with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, giving the dish its warm, hearty texture and colorful appeal that’s sure to brighten your dinner plate.
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced: The protein foundation providing satisfying substance and tenderness.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Sweet, earthy notes that soften to a perfect creamy texture when sautéed.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Pops of green freshness and subtle sweetness to balance the dish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey richness and a sharp, savory finish.
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup: The secret creamy base that ties all the flavors together seamlessly.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Introduces a tangy smoothness that enriches the casserole.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing the sweet potatoes to tender perfection.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A subtle herbaceous hint that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
How to Make Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This warm-up ensures you’ll be ready to bake your casserole as soon as it’s assembled. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and toss in your cubed sweet potatoes. Sauté these for about 10 to 12 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized, giving the dish a beautifully soft yet textured backbone.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
While your sweet potatoes are cooking, use a large bowl to mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This combination forms the luscious, flavorful sauce that will envelop the veggies and chicken.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the sweet potatoes are ready, add them along with the diced chicken breasts and frozen peas to the creamy mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every component is coated in that delicious sauce, promising a delightful bite every time.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing out the surface. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top—this layer is what will melt into a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes. Place the dish in your preheated oven, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbling, making the casserole irresistibly inviting.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove your Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe from the oven and let it rest just a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions.
How to Serve Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish can elevate your casserole’s presentation and provide a lovely contrast in flavor. Consider a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and gentle herbal notes that brighten the dish. A dash of cracked black pepper on top right before serving adds a subtle kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This casserole is deliciously filling on its own but pairs beautifully with light, crisp side dishes. Think a simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even some crusty artisan bread to scoop up every last cheesy, creamy bite. These sides provide balance and add texture that complements the casserole’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets for a personalized touch. Layering colorful veggies on the side or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over each portion can add sophistication to your presentation, perfect for a special occasion or inviting guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap to preserve moisture and flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply scoop out portions and warm them gently for a quick and satisfying meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep or saving extra servings. For best results, freeze before baking by assembling the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, tightly covered. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if still a bit chilled. Alternatively, freeze fully cooked portions to reheat later.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave until heated through, or place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes to revive that bubbly, melty cheese topping. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating can refresh the topping beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes and peas are traditional here, feel free to experiment with green beans, carrots, or corn. Just be mindful of cooking times for each vegetable to maintain a balanced texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with hearty alternatives like cubed tofu, tempeh, or additional vegetables. Using a mushroom or vegetable-based cream soup will keep it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing creaminess.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is classic for its sharp, melty qualities, but you might also try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it melts well to achieve that gooey topping.
Can I prepare the casserole completely ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, assembling the casserole and storing it in the fridge for a few hours before baking is totally doable. Just cover it tightly to keep it fresh, then bake as usual. This is great for busy days or entertaining guests.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
Besides the cheese bubbling and turning golden, you want to ensure the filling is heated through. Give the casserole a gentle poke with a fork in the center; it should be hot and tender. If needed, bake a few minutes longer to reach perfect warmth.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and perfect for bringing loved ones together around the table. I encourage you to try making this dish and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for cozy dinners all year round.
Print
Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Amish Harvest Casserole combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, peas, and a creamy mushroom sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this baked casserole offers a warm, hearty meal with a touch of savory sweetness from the sweet potatoes and a flavorful herb accent from dried thyme.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Sweet Potatoes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and sauté for 10 to 12 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked diced chicken, frozen peas, and the sautéed sweet potatoes to the bowl with the sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Amish Harvest Casserole.
Notes
- You can cook the chicken breasts by boiling, baking, or using leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic when sautéing the sweet potatoes.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake when ready to serve.
- Leftovers store well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
