Amish Country Casserole

Introduction

Amish Country Casserole is a perfect example of comforting, homemade cooking. This hearty beef and noodle bake combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy tomato and mushroom soups, and a generous topping of Parmesan cheese. It’s one of those dishes that brings the family together, offering warmth and satisfaction with each bite. I made this casserole for a family dinner, and it was an instant hit! The flavors meld together so beautifully, and the dish is so easy to prepare that it quickly became a favorite. Everyone loved the creamy, savory texture and the slight tang from the Worcestershire sauce. If you’re looking for a deliciously comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week, this Amish Country Casserole is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 12-ounce bag medium egg noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10.75-ounce can tomato soup
• 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.

2. Cook the Noodles

• Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once done, drain the noodles well and set them aside.

3. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
• Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. Once browned, drain the excess grease.

4. Make the Sauce

• In a large bowl, mix together the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and dried onion flakes. Stir until well combined.

5. Combine and Bake

• Stir the cooked noodles and browned ground beef into the soup mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
• Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
• Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbling.

6. Add the Parmesan

• After baking, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become golden brown.

7. Serve

• Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: 523 kcal
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 1,000mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Main Dish: Serve Amish Country Casserole as a hearty main course.
• With Garlic Bread: Pair the casserole with a side of warm garlic bread to complete the meal.
• With a Salad: Add a fresh side salad for a balance of flavors. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works perfectly.
• With Roasted Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, serve with a side of roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or broccoli.

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: For a leaner version of this casserole, opt for lean ground beef or turkey instead of regular ground beef.
2. Add Extra Veggies: Consider adding some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole for added flavor and nutrients.
3. Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more garlic, Worcestershire sauce, or even hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just bake it for a little longer if it’s cold from the fridge.
5. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Since the noodles will bake in the casserole, slightly undercook them when boiling to ensure they don’t become too soft after baking.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute, such as lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat.
• Cheesy Casserole: Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top along with the Parmesan for an extra cheesy, creamy casserole.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the soup mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free egg noodles or another type of gluten-free pasta to make this casserole gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the egg noodles with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version of this dish.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks make a great addition to any meal, adding a comforting touch.
• Topped with Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving to enhance the creaminess of the casserole.
• With Pickled Vegetables: Serve the casserole with a side of pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• With Steamed Green Beans: Steamed green beans with a sprinkle of sea salt are a perfect side to balance the richness of the casserole.
• For Potlucks or Gatherings: This casserole is great for serving at potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be scaled up or down.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Amish Country Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This casserole also freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply bake the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If frozen, it may take a little longer.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Yes, any short pasta, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli, would work well in this casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter version of this casserole.

4. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with vegetables or a vegetarian meat substitute for a meatless version.

5. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?
Absolutely! You can add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before baking for an extra cheesy casserole.

6. How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the soup mixture for extra heat.

7. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, Amish Country Casserole freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container, and it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

8. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbly, and the cheese (if added) is melted and golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

9. How do I make the casserole creamy?
The creamy texture comes from the soups and milk, but you can add extra cheese or a spoonful of sour cream for a richer texture.

10. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach can boost the nutrition and flavor of the casserole.

Conclusion

Amish Country Casserole is the perfect blend of comforting ingredients, offering a filling, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal for the whole family. With its hearty beef, creamy soup base, and cheesy Parmesan topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole will always satisfy. It’s versatile, customizable, and most importantly, delicious—sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it!

Print