Amish Hamburger Stuffing Casserole

Savor the Flavor: Amish Hamburger Stuffing Casserole

Step into the world of Amish heritage with our Hamburger Stuffing Casserole. This hearty dish combines the comforting flavors of ground hamburger, diced bread cubes, and savory seasonings, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings, this recipe is a timeless favorite that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the Amish.

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground hamburger, cooked and drained
1 ½ quart diced bread cubes
5 – 6 tablespoons butter
3 ribs celery, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 eggs
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon seasoned salt or garlic salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 can cream of mushroom soup

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
Prepare the Bread Cubes:
- Spread the diced bread cubes in an even layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted and golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Cook the Hamburger Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground hamburger over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked hamburger to a mixing bowl.
Saute the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion, and sauté until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground hamburger, toasted bread cubes, sautéed celery and onion mixture, eggs, milk, seasoned salt (or garlic salt), and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down gently with a spoon or spatula to compact it.
Bake to Perfection:
- In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with a little water or milk to thin it out slightly. Pour the thinned soup over the top of the casserole, spreading it out evenly.
Final Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and crisp up.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the casserole is cooked through and golden brown on top, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook’s Tips and Variations:

Bread Variations: Feel free to use different types of bread for the diced bread cubes, such as white, whole wheat, or sourdough, depending on your preference.
Cheese Addition: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Vegetable Additions: Customize the casserole by adding other vegetables such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sautéed celery and onion mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Seasoning Options: Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste preferences, such as Italian seasoning, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground hamburger?
- Yes, you can certainly substitute ground turkey for ground hamburger in this recipe if you prefer. Just keep in mind that ground turkey tends to be leaner than ground beef, so you may need to adjust the seasoning and/or add a little extra fat (such as butter or olive oil) to prevent the stuffing from becoming too dry.
Is there a gluten-free option for the bread cubes?
- Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bread to make the diced bread cubes for this casserole. Simply use your favorite gluten-free bread and follow the same process of toasting the cubes in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover the assembled casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, remove it from the refrigerator, uncover it, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
What can I serve with this Hamburger Stuffing Casserole?
- This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some classic options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad. You can also serve it with a side of cranberry sauce or gravy for extra flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the portions in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

More Delicious Ideas:

Sausage Variation: Add cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage to the meat mixture for an extra punch of flavor and protein.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground hamburger and add diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to make a delicious vegetarian stuffing casserole.
Herbaceous Twist: Enhance the flavor of the stuffing by adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, sage, or thyme to the mixture before baking.
Crispy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle crushed buttery crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole before baking for a crispy, golden finish.

Our Amish Hamburger Stuffing Casserole is a timeless classic that celebrates the comforting flavors of home-cooked goodness. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delicious taste of Amish tradition!