Delve into the heart of traditional Amish cuisine with this comforting and versatile Amish Country Casserole recipe. A delightful blend of ground beef, pasta, and savory soups, this dish embodies the essence of hearty, home-cooked meals that bring families together. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or seeking a satisfying meal for any occasion, this timeless recipe promises to please palates and evoke the warmth of Amish tradition with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- One 22.6-ounce can condensed tomato soup
- One 22.6-ounce can condensed mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional for garnish)
- Your favorite shredded cheese (optional for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to the package directions, drain it, and set it aside.
- Saute and Brown: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing them until the onions turn transparent. Incorporate the ground beef, cooking until it browns and breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Mix and Season: In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed tomato soup, mushroom soup, and milk until the mixture is smooth. Blend the soup mixture with the cooked beef and pasta. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the beef and pasta mixture into a greased casserole dish. Optionally, top the casserole with shredded cheese for added flavor. Sprinkle paprika over the top, and if desired, add a touch of dried parsley for garnish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling with warmth and the top is golden brown.
Tips:
- Experiment with different types of pasta to suit your preference or use what you have on hand.
- Customize the level of seasoning to match your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a richer texture, consider using a combination of different cheeses as a topping.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the rich flavors and comforting embrace of Amish tradition with each mouthful of this delightful Amish Country Casserole. Whether shared with loved ones during a family gathering or savored as a satisfying meal any day of the week, this beloved recipe promises to evoke feelings of warmth and contentment. Embrace the timeless appeal of Amish cuisine and make cherished memories with this beloved dish that celebrates the joy of home-cooked goodness.
1. Can I use different types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for lean ground beef, you can certainly explore other options to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be excellent alternatives. Just ensure that whatever meat you choose is cooked thoroughly and seasoned well to enhance the flavor profile of the casserole.
2. Are there any variations I can try to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to cater to vegetarian diets. Instead of using ground beef, consider incorporating protein-rich ingredients such as lentils, black beans, or tofu. Additionally, you can replace the condensed mushroom soup with a vegetarian-friendly alternative or even create a homemade mushroom sauce using vegetable broth and fresh mushrooms. These substitutions will ensure that vegetarians can enjoy a delicious and satisfying version of the Amish Country Casserole.
3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and freeze it for later use?
Certainly! One of the great advantages of casseroles is their suitability for advance preparation and freezing. After assembling the casserole according to the recipe instructions, allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Label the dish with the date and contents, then store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before baking it as directed. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights or for preparing meals in advance for gatherings and special occasions.
4. Can I adjust the seasoning and spices in the recipe to suit my family’s taste preferences?
Absolutely! The beauty of homemade recipes like this Amish Country Casserole lies in their adaptability to personal tastes. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and seasonings to customize the flavor profile to your liking. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. For a deeper savory flavor, you can incorporate dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil. Don’t hesitate to tailor the seasoning levels to cater to the preferences of your family and guests, ensuring that each bite of the casserole is bursting with delicious flavors tailored to your liking.
Amish Country Casserole
This Amish Country Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish made with ground beef, noodles, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect dinner for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional, for topping)
- 1 tbsp butter (for topping, optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth.
- Stir in the cooked noodles, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top and dot with small pieces of butter.
5. Bake:
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side salad or vegetables.
Notes
- Make It Your Own: Add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Variation: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.