Few dishes capture the warmth and tradition of family gatherings like Amish Country Casserole. This beloved recipe is a reflection of simplicity, community, and nourishment. Rooted in the culinary heritage of the Amish, this casserole blends affordable pantry staples into a meal that’s not only filling but also brimming with cozy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a reliable dinner option for your family or a crowd-pleaser to share at a potluck, Amish Country Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that checks all the boxes.
I remember the first time I tasted this casserole at a church potluck. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the table was overflowing with comfort food classics. Yet, this casserole stood out—steaming hot, golden cheese bubbling on top, and the aroma of seasoned beef and creamy sauce drawing everyone in. One bite, and I was hooked. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, the kind you crave when you need a little extra comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make this casserole; it’s a recipe built around everyday pantry and fridge staples.
- Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: From swapping out cheeses to adding vegetables, this casserole is a blank canvas for creativity.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters are sure to enjoy the savory combination of noodles, beef, and cheese.
- Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or for those nights when you need dinner ready in a flash.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this hearty casserole to life:
- 1 pound egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) tomato soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Amish Country Casserole
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delightful casserole. Don’t worry—it’s as easy as it is delicious!
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside. This step ensures that your noodles will hold their texture during baking.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef alongside the chopped onion. Stir occasionally, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
To the skillet, add the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir everything together until smooth and well-combined. Add a dash of salt and a generous sprinkle of pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and slightly tangy—a perfect complement to the noodles.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef and sauce mixture. Gently stir until the noodles are evenly coated. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt into a golden, gooey topping that ties all the flavors together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese—it should melt and become bubbly with slightly golden edges. Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Try Different Pasta: While egg noodles are traditional, rotini, fusilli, or even bowtie pasta work beautifully. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by incorporating diced carrots, peas, or chopped bell peppers. You can mix them in with the sauce for added texture.
- Use a Different Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can add a unique twist. For a sharper flavor, try aged cheddar.
- Double the Recipe: Feeding a larger crowd? This recipe is easily scalable. Just use a bigger baking dish or prepare two casseroles side by side.
Details for the Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Traditional
Notes for Success
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully in place of beef, offering a lighter option.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and use gluten-free condensed soups.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Adding a bit of extra milk to the sauce before baking can help keep the casserole creamy.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freeze: Freeze the assembled, uncooked casserole for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Related Recipes
If you love this casserole, be sure to try:
Conclusion
Amish Country Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to slow down, share a meal, and savor the comforts of home. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich, hearty flavors make it a dish you’ll return to time and again. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or contributing to a potluck, this casserole is sure to delight. Try it once, and it may just become a staple in your recipe collection.
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Amish Country Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Dish for Every Occasion
Description
Few dishes capture the warmth and tradition of family gatherings like Amish Country Casserole. This beloved recipe is a reflection of simplicity, community, and nourishment. Rooted in the culinary heritage of the Amish, this casserole blends affordable pantry staples into a meal that’s not only filling but also brimming with cozy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a reliable dinner option for your family or a crowd-pleaser to share at a potluck, Amish Country Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that checks all the boxes.
I remember the first time I tasted this casserole at a church potluck. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the table was overflowing with comfort food classics. Yet, this casserole stood out—steaming hot, golden cheese bubbling on top, and the aroma of seasoned beef and creamy sauce drawing everyone in. One bite, and I was hooked. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, the kind you crave when you need a little extra comfort.
Ingredients
Few dishes capture the warmth and tradition of family gatherings like Amish Country Casserole. This beloved recipe is a reflection of simplicity, community, and nourishment. Rooted in the culinary heritage of the Amish, this casserole blends affordable pantry staples into a meal that’s not only filling but also brimming with cozy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a reliable dinner option for your family or a crowd-pleaser to share at a potluck, Amish Country Casserole is an easy-to-make dish that checks all the boxes.
I remember the first time I tasted this casserole at a church potluck. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the table was overflowing with comfort food classics. Yet, this casserole stood out—steaming hot, golden cheese bubbling on top, and the aroma of seasoned beef and creamy sauce drawing everyone in. One bite, and I was hooked. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, the kind you crave when you need a little extra comfort.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside. This step ensures that your noodles will hold their texture during baking.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef alongside the chopped onion. Stir occasionally, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
To the skillet, add the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir everything together until smooth and well-combined. Add a dash of salt and a generous sprinkle of pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and slightly tangy—a perfect complement to the noodles.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef and sauce mixture. Gently stir until the noodles are evenly coated. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt into a golden, gooey topping that ties all the flavors together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese—it should melt and become bubbly with slightly golden edges. Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap tightly in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight before baking.
