Amish Harvest Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the wholesome flavors of fall in one delicious bake. Made with ground meat, seasonal vegetables, and tender noodles or rice, all layered with a savory tomato-based sauce and a touch of sweetness, this rustic casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights. It’s a true taste of traditional Amish cooking—simple, satisfying, and made with love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A one-dish meal that’s filling and packed with flavor
Combines meat, vegetables, and starch for a balanced dinner
Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
Uses pantry and seasonal staples you likely already have
Easy to customize with what’s in your kitchen

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef or turkey
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Carrots, diced
Potatoes, peeled and cubed
Green beans or peas (fresh or frozen)
Diced tomatoes (canned)
Tomato sauce
Brown sugar
Salt and black pepper
Dried thyme or oregano
Cooked noodles or rice (optional, for serving or layering)
Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground meat over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and garlic; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in diced carrots and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in green beans or peas and cooked noodles or rice if using.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese if desired.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a fall-inspired twist
Add cabbage or zucchini to bulk up the veggies
Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness
Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for added texture
Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or lentils

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes).
You can also freeze the casserole before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely—freeze before or after baking for convenient future meals.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Yes, but drain them well and reduce the cooking time since they’re already soft.

What kind of ground meat works best?

Ground beef or turkey are traditional, but you can also use pork or a mix.

Does it need cheese on top?

No, it’s optional. Cheese adds richness, but the dish is flavorful on its own.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free noodles or rice and ensure your canned goods and seasonings are gluten-free.

What if I don’t have tomato sauce?

You can use a mix of crushed tomatoes and a bit of ketchup or tomato paste as a substitute.

Can I use cooked pasta instead of potatoes?

Yes, feel free to swap the starch—noodles, rice, or even quinoa work well.

How sweet is the casserole?

Just mildly sweet. You can adjust the brown sugar to suit your taste.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with a green salad, applesauce, or warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Amish Harvest Casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness to your table. Loaded with vegetables, meat, and a touch of sweetness, this casserole is both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re serving a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, it’s a simple and hearty dish that embodies the best of traditional Amish cooking.