If you’re searching for a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe has you covered. This rich and savory casserole combines creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and comforting classic flavors into one irresistible bake. Perfect for Sunday dinners or any time you want to treat your family to a fuss-free, satisfying meal, it’s a delightful way to bring everyone around the table with smiles and full bellies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe means gathering simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play an essential role. From the savory ground beef to the creamy blend of soups and sour cream, every component ensures a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and a golden-brown finish that looks as good as it tastes.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy, flavorful base without excess grease.
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma that elevates the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a hint of savory depth to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a warm, smoky hint and inviting color.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Lends a touch of herbal brightness.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup: Makes the casserole wonderfully creamy and comforting.
- 1 cup whole milk: Helps create a smooth, luscious texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness to balance the savory elements.
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed: The hearty, crispy foundation for the casserole’s satisfying bite.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Offers gooey, melty cheesiness throughout and a golden top layer.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes: Delivers a crunchy, buttery topping that’s the perfect contrast.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Ensures the topping crisps up beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will develop a perfect golden crust when baked.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef alongside the finely chopped onions until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. This step builds the savory foundation of the dish, so cook until no pink remains.
Step 3: Season and Mix the Filling
Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley. These spices bring warmth and depth to the casserole. Next, off the heat, mix in the cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, and sour cream until everything combines into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Potatoes and Cheese
Fold in the thawed hash brown potatoes and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese gently until everything is evenly incorporated. This layer ensures every bite is a comforting blend of creaminess and tender potato.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the prepared mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or cornflakes with melted butter for the topping. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over the casserole, followed by the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a beautiful, cheesy finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until it’s hot, bubbling, and the top is golden brown. After pulling it out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving, so every slice holds together wonderfully.
How to Serve Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or chives add a lovely pop of color and a mild herbal note that complements the rich casserole. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also enhance the creamy flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables that add freshness and balance to the rich, cheesy entree. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside warm dinner rolls or buttered corn on the cob.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive dinner, plate individual servings in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins, topping each portion with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and an extra pinch of cheese broiled until bubbly. This personalized touch turns the Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe into an elegant comfort-styled dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully and keeps its creamy texture and rich taste, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can assemble the casserole in advance and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake following the original baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from over-browning, uncover during the last 5 minutes for a nice crisp finish.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Cooked shredded chicken is a great alternative, lending a lighter flavor while still working perfectly with the creamy, cheesy base of the Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free condensed soup and gluten-free crackers or cornflakes for the topping. This keeps the dish delicious and safe for those with gluten sensitivities without losing any flavor.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Fresh potatoes can be used if you grate and thaw them properly; however, frozen hash browns offer convenience and consistent texture that pairs exceptionally well with the creamy casserole. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture from fresh potatoes before mixing in.
What can I do to make the topping extra crispy?
Melted butter combined with crushed crackers or cornflakes creates the ideal crunchy crust. For even more crispiness, you can broil the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
How well does this casserole reheat?
This Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe reheats wonderfully, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor. Oven reheating is preferred over microwave for the best crust and overall taste, but microwaving works well for quick meals.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’re armed with all the tips and heartfelt knowledge about the Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe, it’s time to bring this comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious casserole into your kitchen. It’s the perfect dish for busy families, cozy gatherings, or whenever you crave a meal that feels like home. Give it a try, and let this savory casserole become your go-to comfort food that everyone raves about.
Print
Amish Sunday Savior Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Amish Sunday Savior Casserole is a hearty and comforting American main dish featuring a creamy blend of ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices combined with tender hash brown potatoes and cheddar cheese. Topped with a buttery cracker crust, this casserole bakes to bubbly perfection, making it an ideal family dinner or Sunday meal that can be prepared ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Sauce and Dairy
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Other
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cook Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley into the cooked beef and onions. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Add Sauces and Dairy: Mix in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Potatoes and Cheese: Fold in the thawed hash brown potatoes and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly into the mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish to create the base layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter, mixing thoroughly to coat the crumbs well.
- Add Topping and Cheese: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole, then top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until it is hot, bubbly, and the top turns a golden brown color.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set, then serve warm for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it convenient for meal prep.
- For a variation, substitute cooked shredded chicken for ground beef and use cream of chicken soup in place of the cream of mushroom soup.
- Use crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes for the topping based on preference or what you have on hand.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and crackers/cornflakes used are labeled gluten-free.
