We named this dish ‘Amish Holiday Hero’ because it always steals the show on our table!

#### Instructions:

1. **Sauté the Vegetables**: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

2. **Brown the Meat**: Add the ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey) to the skillet with the vegetables. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

3. **Add Seasonings and Cream**: Stir in the garlic powder, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Then, pour in the heavy cream or sour cream, and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. **Assemble the Dish**: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into a large baking dish or casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top.

5. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the dish is bubbling at the edges.

6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, a simple salad, or some crusty bread.

### Tips for the Perfect Amish Holiday Hero

– **Customize Your Meat**: While ground beef is the most common option, feel free to mix and match meats to suit your preferences. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.

– **Make it Ahead of Time**: The **Amish Holiday Hero** can be made a day or two in advance. Simply assemble it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy holiday meals.

– **Vegetarian Version**: For a meatless twist, substitute the ground meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils, or use plant-based meat alternatives.

### Why “Amish Holiday Hero” Is a Must-Try Dish

The **Amish Holiday Hero** is more than just a dish; it’s a **tradition** in the making. Whether you’re looking to add something new to your holiday spread or you want to try a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of savory meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.

It’s the dish that brings people together and creates memories around the table. So, if you’re looking for a way to make your holiday meal extra special, give the **Amish Holiday Hero** a try. It will undoubtedly become a cherished favorite for years to come.