Amish Country Casserole Recipe

Amish Country Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings simplicity and taste together. With just a few pantry staples, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something warm and satisfying. The combination of tender egg noodles, flavorful beef, and a creamy sauce creates a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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 (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 3:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4:
Add the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken if you prefer), milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and dried onion flakes to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 5:
Once the sauce mixture is well combined, add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet. Stir until the noodles are fully coated with the beef and sauce mixture.

Step 6:
Transfer the noodle and beef mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 7:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly on top.

Step 8:
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld further and makes serving easier.

Variations:

• Cheese Upgrade: Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking for an extra cheesy touch.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Cream of Chicken Substitute: You can use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a slightly different flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a bit of heat.

Cooking Notes:

• Make sure not to overcook the egg noodles before baking, as they will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• For a richer flavor, consider using heavy cream instead of milk in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

This Amish Country Casserole pairs perfectly with a light side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also great for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Tips:

• This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish! You can prepare it up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until hot.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

25-30 minutes

Total Time:

40-45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 800mg

FAQs:

1. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use other pasta varieties such as rotini, penne, or farfalle.

3. What can I serve with this casserole?
A fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are all great options to pair with this casserole. You could also serve it with a side of pickles for a bit of tangy contrast.

4. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the top is bubbly and the cheese has melted to a golden brown. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) if you’re using a meat thermometer.

This Amish Country Casserole is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Its simple ingredients and deliciously creamy texture make it a go-to recipe for family meals, gatherings, and potlucks. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy this casserole fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides for a meal that everyone will love!

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