Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake
Growing up in a family that cherished home-cooked meals, the Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake holds a special place in my heart. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace of nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. The combination of hearty ground beef and seasonal vegetables creates a comforting meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Every bite tells a story of tradition, love, and the simple joys of life. This recipe is a celebration of the flavors of fall, making it a perfect choice for cozy evenings spent with loved ones.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Seasonal Freshness: The use of fall vegetables like butternut squash, carrots, and Brussels sprouts not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritional boost. These veggies are at their peak during the fall, ensuring that you get the best taste and health benefits.
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef and vegetables creates a filling dish that is perfect for chilly evenings. It’s a one-pan meal that satisfies hunger without the need for multiple side dishes.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish based on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option, the recipe can adapt to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Serving Size: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika during this step to infuse the meat with flavor.
- Add the Veggies: Stir in the diced butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced carrots. Mix well to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs, such as rosemary or cumin, to give the dish a unique twist.
- Use Leftover Vegetables: This recipe is perfect for using up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge. Just chop them up and throw them in!
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Try Different Proteins: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
What I Serve With This Recipe
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the delicious juices.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake.
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for an extra comforting side.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
- Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
The Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of home and family. Its simplicity, combined with the rich flavors of seasonal ingredients, makes it a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. I love how it brings people together, creating moments of joy and connection around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warmth it brings to your home.
Amish Hamburger with Fall Veggies Bake
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
- Add the Veggies: Stir in the diced butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced carrots. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Nutrition Information
