Hearth Casserole (her-TH CASS-her-ol)
Amish Casserole
Hearth Casserole
Items Needed Slow cooker, cutting board, knife, mixing bowl, spoon Ingredients
1 lb cooked ham [diced]
6 medium potatoes [peeled and thinly sliced]
1 medium onion [chopped]
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper [to taste]
1 tbsp butter [cut into small pieces]
Hearth Casserole
Amish Casserole
This hearty slow-cooked dish blends the rustic comforts of diced ham, tender potatoes, and melted cheese with the creamy richness of mushroom soup. Named with a nod to Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, Brennkartoffel-Käse Eintopf is a casserole that warms the soul and fills the home with mouthwatering aromas—true to its tradition of nourishing both body and community. Layered with love and slow-cooked to perfection, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—even the neighbors who “just stopped by.”
Recipe DirectionsIn a slow cooker, layer half of the potatoes, half of the ham, and half of the onion.
Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, ham, and onion.
In a bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker.
Dot the top with pieces of butter.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and let it melt.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the soup mix.
Swap cheddar for Swiss or Monterey Jack to suit your cheese preferences.
To make it vegetarian, omit the ham and substitute with sliced mushrooms or bell peppers.
Prep ingredients the night before to simplify morning assembly for the slow cooker.
Source Original Reference Site
History
Heavily influenced by their German roots, Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch communities brought with them a tradition of layered, economical, and nourishing meals. This casserole reflects that simplicity and thrift, combining pantry staples like potatoes and preserved meats with the convenience of slow cooking. It's a dish born from practicality, yet rich with the flavors of home.
