Amish Shipwreck Casserole – A Hearty, Layered Meal with Layers of Comfort and Tradition!

Amish Shipwreck Casserole is the ultimate one-dish meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or for cozy family dinners. Made with layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, onions, beans, and rice, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese, this casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It's a comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Amish Shipwreck Casserole

The name “Shipwreck” might suggest that this casserole is a mix of whatever ingredients you have on hand, and that’s exactly what makes it so special! It's a dish born out of simplicity, using basic pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, beans, and rice to create a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The Amish are known for their simple, homey meals, and this casserole exemplifies that tradition perfectly. Layered with ingredients that meld together during baking, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Amish Shipwreck Casserole

This casserole is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and satisfying. The layers of potatoes, onions, seasoned ground beef, beans, and rice are all brought together with a tangy tomato sauce, making each bite a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It's a great dish to prepare ahead of time, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Best of all, it's an easy, no-fuss meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 500 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 6g

This dish is a filling, balanced meal that’s packed with protein and carbohydrates, making it perfect for feeding a hungry family or a large group.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Amish Shipwreck Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty bread also makes a great accompaniment to soak up the extra tomato sauce. For a special touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Fun Fact: The Simplicity of Amish Cooking

Amish cuisine is rooted in simplicity and tradition, using ingredients that are often grown or raised on their own farms. Shipwreck Casserole is a perfect example of this, using pantry staples to create a hearty, comforting meal that feeds the whole family. The casserole is also a reflection of the Amish community’s focus on waste-free cooking, using leftovers and simple ingredients to create delicious, wholesome meals.

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Cooking Tips

Layer It Right: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly in the baking dish to ensure all the flavors meld together as it bakes. The thinly sliced potatoes should be at the bottom to allow them to cook properly. Cheesy Goodness: For an extra cheesy topping, feel free to sprinkle more cheddar on top before baking the final 15 minutes! Customize the Veggies: You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.

Optional Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version of this casserole. Turkey Twist: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground meat, dairy-free cheese, and substitute the beans and rice for a hearty vegan option.

Amish Shipwreck Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained)
• 2 white onions (thinly sliced)
• 2 large baking potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 celery stalks (diced or thinly sliced)
• 2 cups white rice (cooked)
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (grated)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
2. • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drain any excess fat and stir in the drained kidney beans. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
4. • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer the bottom of the dish with the thinly sliced onions and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Make the Tomato Sauce:
6. • In a medium bowl, mix together the tomato paste, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and 1 can of water. Stir to combine.
7. Layer the Ingredients:
8. • Pour half of the tomato mixture over the potatoes and onions. Add the sliced celery on top, followed by an even layer of cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper again. Pour 1 cup of water over the rice layer to keep it moist.
9. Add the Beef and Beans:
10. • Spread the ground beef and kidney bean mixture over the rice. Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the top, making sure everything is evenly coated.
11. Bake the Casserole:
12. • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
13. Add the Cheese:
14. • Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
15. Serve:
16. • Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite sides!

Final Thoughts

Amish Shipwreck Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, onions, and beans, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this classic, family-friendly dish!