Craving Comfort? Try This Easy Slow Cooker Amish Harvest Casserole!
Fall is in the air, and that means it’s time for cozy comfort food! And what’s more comforting than a hearty casserole simmering away in your slow cooker? This Slow Cooker Amish Harvest Casserole is the perfect dish for a chilly evening, a potluck, or even a weeknight dinner. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and will leave everyone feeling satisfied. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure deliciousness!
Making the Perfect Amish Harvest Casserole in Your Slow Cooker
This casserole is all about layering flavors and letting the slow cooker do its magic. The result is a rich, savory dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s break down the key elements and how to achieve the best results.
Gathering Your Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You probably have many of these ingredients already in your pantry and fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best, peeled and diced. About 6-8 medium potatoes should do the trick.
- Ham: Diced ham adds a savory, smoky flavor. You can use leftover ham from a holiday dinner or purchase pre-diced ham.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base of the sauce. You’ll need two cans.
- Sour Cream: Adds a tangy richness.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is essential for that cheesy goodness.
- Onion: Diced onion provides a savory depth.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste! Don’t be shy, seasoning is key.
- Optional: Green onions or chives for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Assembling Your Casserole
Now for the fun part! Assembling the casserole is incredibly easy. Just follow these simple steps:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: In a greased slow cooker, layer half of the potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the cheese.
- Spread the Sauce: Pour half of the soup mixture over the first layer.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, cheese, and soup mixture.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Garnish (Optional): Before serving, garnish with green onions or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Amish Harvest Casserole
Want to take your casserole to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks:
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Check for tenderness around the 6-hour mark on low.
- Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheddar for a unique flavor.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Thicken if Needed: If the casserole is too watery after cooking, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stirring it into the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add 30 minutes to the cooking time.
For more delicious slow cooker recipes, check out our guide to Easy Slow Cooker Dinners (internal link).
Conclusion: Enjoy a Taste of Amish Comfort
This Slow Cooker Amish Harvest Casserole is a true comfort food classic that’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Amish comfort! You won’t regret it!
