If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, cozy dish that brings warmth to any table, the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This casserole perfectly blends tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a creamy mixture that’s crowned with gooey cheddar cheese. Every bite bursts with autumnal flavors that feel both nostalgic and fresh, making it ideal for family dinners or a nourishing weeknight meal. Trust me, once you make this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become a treasured classic in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy when cooking this dish. Each component plays a vital role — from the hearty chicken and sweet potatoes to the creamy base and rich cheddar topping. These simple but essential ingredients come together to create a casserole that’s loaded with texture, color, and satisfying flavor.
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced: Adds lean protein and a tender texture that’s perfect for casseroles.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Brings natural sweetness and a lovely soft bite when sautéed.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a melty, cheesy topping that ties the dish all together.
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup: Creates a rich, creamy base that adds moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and helps keep the casserole luscious and smooth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing the sweet potatoes to tender perfection.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Lends a gentle herbal note that enhances the overall aroma and taste.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To balance and elevate all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which is just the right temperature to bake the casserole to golden perfection without overcooking the ingredients inside.
Step 2: Sauté Sweet Potatoes
In a skillet warmed with olive oil, sauté the cubed sweet potatoes over medium heat for about 10 to 12 minutes. This step softens them and enhances their natural sweetness, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth when baked.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
While the sweet potatoes cook, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This mixture creates a savory and creamy base that envelops all the other ingredients perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
Stir the diced chicken, frozen peas, and sautéed sweet potatoes into the creamy mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated to guarantee each forkful bursts with harmonious flavor and texture.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This cheesy layer will brown beautifully and add a deliciously gooey finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden, signaling the perfect meld of all those delicious ingredients.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, serve this Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe hot for the best experience. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and invites everyone back for seconds without hesitation.
How to Serve Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this casserole with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots adds an extra layer of freshness and crunch, elevating both the look and the taste of your homemade favorite.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, providing some brightness to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also ensures everyone gets their own perfectly baked portion with a crisp cheese crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it a wonderful next-day meal or lunch option.
Freezing
This Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Simply assemble the casserole but don’t bake it right away. Wrap it tightly with foil and freezer-safe wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps maintain the casserole’s hearty texture and keeps the cheese topping delightfully melty.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides peas in the Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute peas with green beans, corn, or even diced carrots. These alternatives will keep the dish vibrant and add great flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or a plant-based protein. Just ensure you adjust the seasoning to enhance the earthiness and savoriness of the vegetables.
What type of cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
While cheddar is classic, you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gruyère for a more unique melt and flavor profile. Just choose a cheese that melts well and complements the creamy layers.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Definitely! Just double-check that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free or substitute it with a homemade version. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I tell when the casserole is fully cooked?
Look for a bubbling cheesy top that’s golden brown and tender sweet potatoes throughout. If you used pre-cooked chicken and your oven temperature was accurate, following the bake time should yield perfect results.
Final Thoughts
The Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe is a treasure trove of comfort and flavor that deserves a spot on your dinner table. It’s approachable, delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish offers warmth in every bite and an easy way to celebrate hearty, wholesome ingredients. Give it a try soon—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Amish Harvest Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Amish Harvest Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts mixed with sweet potatoes, peas, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a wholesome family dinner that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
Dairy & Sauces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Other
- 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 get it ready for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté Sweet Potatoes: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and sauté them for 10 to 12 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden.
- Prepare Creamy Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and integrated.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked and diced chicken, frozen peas, and sautéed sweet potatoes into the bowl with the creamy mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. 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 is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve it hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken for the chicken breasts to save time.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the creamy mixture.
- For a creamier texture, add an extra 2 tablespoons of sour cream or a splash of milk to the sauce.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
