As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of savory ground beef and melting cheese filled the air, instantly whisking me away to a simpler time. There’s something magical about the Amish Country Casserole that evokes feelings of warmth and togetherness, making it perfect comfort food for any family gathering. This hearty dish, combining tender egg noodles, rich cream of mushroom soup, and your choice of ground meat, is as easy to prepare as it is nourishing. Not only does it promise to create cozy moments around the dinner table, but it also makes for a fantastic leftover option that reheats beautifully. So, are you ready to dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your home?
Why You’ll Love This Casserole Recipe
Comforting all-in-one meal: This Amish Country Casserole brings together all your favorite flavors in one dish, making meal prep a breeze.
Nostalgic flavors: Experience traditional Amish tastes that evoke warm memories and family connection.
Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and quick assembly, you can serve up a delightful family dinner in no time.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish is bound to please both kids and adults alike.
Versatile substitutions: Customize with fresh veggies or different meats to cater to your family’s preferences—try adding frozen peas for a vibrant touch!
For more hearty delights, check out this Chicken Alfredo Casserole or enjoy a serving of Sweet Harmony Casserole alongside!
Amish Country Casserole Ingredients
• Unlock the secrets to comfort in this classic dish.
For the Casserole
- Ground Beef – Provides savory depth and richness; ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.
- Medium Onion (chopped, about 1 cup) – Adds sweetness and aroma; substitute with shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
- Egg Noodles (1 cup, uncooked) – Serves as the hearty base that holds the casserole together; other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini work too.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz) – Offers creaminess and umami flavor; consider homemade cream sauce or another cream soup like chicken for variety.
- Milk (1 cup) – Thins the sauce and enhances creaminess; low-fat or plant-based milk can be a lighter option.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups) – Melts to create a cheesy topping; mozzarella or a cheese blend can also be delightful.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor profile; fresh minced garlic can provide a stronger taste if preferred.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds warmth and a slight kick; freshly cracked pepper is recommended for better flavor.
- Frozen Peas (1 cup, optional) – Adds color and nutrition; substitute with other vegetables like corn or mixed greens for variety.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Amish Country Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a properly heated environment for your Amish Country Casserole, allowing it to cook evenly and develop a golden, cheesy top. Grab your trusty oven mitts and set a timer as you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it browns, stirring frequently until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish hearty but not oily.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
While the meat and onions are cooking, take a mixing bowl and combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the mixture until smooth, blending all the flavors together. This creamy sauce will be the comforting base for your Amish Country Casserole, as it envelops the other ingredients in deliciousness.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the meat is cooked and drained, return the skillet to low heat. Add the uncooked egg noodles and the prepared sauce mixture to the skillet, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. If you’re including frozen peas, stir them in at this stage for a splash of color and added nutrition—a great touch for your casserole!
Step 5: Transfer to the Casserole Dish
Carefully pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Ensure that the egg noodles and meat are evenly distributed for consistent cooking. As you do this, the vibrant colors of the peas and the creamy sauce should create a beautiful sight that sets the stage for an inviting meal.
Step 6: Bake with Foil
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the noodles to soften in the creamy sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring your Amish Country Casserole retains moisture as it cooks.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The golden color of the cheese adds a lovely finish, enticing everyone at the dinner table.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheesy top is achieved, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Present your delightful Amish Country Casserole with pride—it’s a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Expert Tips for Amish Country Casserole
Flavor Boosting: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more aromatic and intense flavor in your Amish Country Casserole.
Grease Control: Always drain excess grease from the browned meat. This simple step keeps your casserole from becoming too oily and lets the flavors shine.
Cheesy Goodness: Don’t skip the cheese topping! It not only adds delicious flavor but also creates a beautiful, melty crust that everyone loves.
Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.
Add Veggies: Feel free to sneak in some frozen peas or other veggies to boost nutrition and color, without altering the comforting taste of the casserole.
What to Serve with Amish Country Casserole?
Pair your heartwarming Amish Country Casserole with these delightful side dishes that enhance the cozy experience.
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Garlic Bread: Its crunchy texture and buttery flavor are the perfect match for the creamy casserole, providing a delightful contrast.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these vibrant carrots complement the savory notes of the casserole, adding a delightful touch of natural sweetness.
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Buttery Corn on the Cob: This classic side brings a sweet, fresh crunch that pairs beautifully with the hearty casserole, making every bite irresistible.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Its tangy creaminess adds a crunchy texture to the plate, enhancing the comforting flavors of the Amish Country Casserole.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, spiced treat provides a sweet ending that echoes the comforting essence of the meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshing and tangy, this drink offers a bright zing that cuts through the richness of the casserole, making for a perfect pairing.
Amish Country Casserole Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful dish and make it your own with these fun and flavorful variations!
- Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a dairy-free cream sauce and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
- Different Meats: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter, healthier casserole.
- Pasta Choice: Change up the egg noodles for other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini to give the casserole a fun texture twist while maintaining the comforting flavors.
- Cheddar Swap: Experiment with different cheese types, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to add a unique flavor profile—pepper jack will even give you a little spice!
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by stirring in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the sauce mixture before combining with the other ingredients. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
- Crunchy Topping: Before baking, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for an added crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Spice It Up: For a little kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the filling to elevate the heat level and tantalize your taste buds!
For more hearty comfort options, don’t forget to check out our Chicken Rice Casserole or try our deliciously warm Sweet Harmony Casserole as a side dish!
How to Store and Freeze Amish Country Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the casserole fresh while maintaining its creamy texture.
Freezer: If you have extra casserole, freeze it before baking for a quick meal later. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. For quicker reheating, use the microwave but be careful to heat evenly.
Portioning: Consider portioning into individual servings before freezing for easy on-the-go meals. This makes enjoying your hearty Amish Country Casserole even more convenient!
Make Ahead Options
These Amish Country Casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all components—browning the meat, mixing the sauce, and combining everything in the baking dish. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. To maintain quality, ensure the casserole is wrapped well to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the preheated oven directly from the fridge (add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time), and enjoy the same comforting flavors that will make your family feel right at home!
Amish Country Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat is best for this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground beef is the traditional choice for Amish Country Casserole due to its rich flavor, but you can easily use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The key is to brown the meat well to add depth to the overall dish.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Amish Country Casserole? How?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! I recommend wrapping the unbaked casserole tightly in aluminum foil or transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, or bake from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure it’s heated throughout.
What if I find the casserole too dry after baking?
If your casserole seems a bit dry after baking, you can mix in a little additional milk or cream before serving. Another tip is to cover it with foil during the first part of the baking process, which helps retain moisture. The key is to ensure the noodle-to-sauce ratio is balanced for a creamy texture!
Is this casserole pet-friendly or allergy-friendly?
This dish is not safe for pets, especially dogs, as it contains onions and garlic, which can be harmful to them. For allergy considerations, always check the specific brands of cream of mushroom soup and cheese you use, as they may contain allergens like gluten or dairy. You can also explore dairy-free cheese options if lactose intolerance is a concern.
How can I customize this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrition. If you like a little heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Swapping different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or a cheese blend, can also create delightful variations. Each tweak brings a new twist to this comforting classic!
Amish Country Casserole: A Hearty Hug in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Add the uncooked egg noodles and prepared sauce mixture to the skillet, mixing well.
- Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9x13 casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
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