Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake: A Comforting Harvest Meal

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, nothing brings warmth to the table quite like a hearty, home-cooked meal. This Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake is the epitome of comfort food, packed with wholesome ingredients that celebrate the season’s best produce. Combining savory ground beef with a medley of autumn vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish-inspired dish is a one-pan wonder that embodies the heartiness of traditional farm cooking. It is rich, flavorful, and nourishing, bringing together the simplicity of everyday ingredients in a way that feels special. The combination of ground beef, root vegetables, and a creamy sauce creates a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to use whatever fall vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups diced potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup diced butternut squash
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
4. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, carrots, butternut squash, and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika.
5. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the greased baking dish. Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly over the beef.
6. Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this over the vegetables and beef in the baking dish.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese and breadcrumbs if using, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of baking for added nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What other vegetables work well in this dish?

Parsnips, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts all make great additions.

Can I use ground pork or sausage instead?

Absolutely! Ground pork or even crumbled sausage will add a unique depth of flavor.

Do I have to use Worcestershire sauce?

While Worcestershire sauce adds depth, you can substitute soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar effect.

How can I make this a complete meal?

Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild in flavor and packed with soft, well-cooked vegetables, making it great for kids.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

This Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of the season while enjoying a simple, nourishing meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your autumn menu. With easy customization options and comforting flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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