If you’re in the mood for something hearty, nostalgic, and wonderfully simple, this Amish Country Casserole is exactly what you need. Made with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, creamy soups, and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, this dish is pure comfort food baked into one easy casserole. It’s the kind of recipe that brings back memories of family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. This casserole is a classic for a reason—it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and loved by kids and adults alike. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few steps, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal ready for the oven. And the best part? It’s just as good the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping ahead. I started making this dish on busy weeknights when I needed something filling that didn’t require a ton of cleanup or complicated ingredients. Over time, it became one of those go-to meals that I now double just to make sure there’s enough for second helpings (and lunch the next day). Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a taste of traditional home cooking, this Amish Country Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Let’s start with what you’ll need and the first few steps to get this comfort classic on the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

This recipe makes enough for 6 generous servings and is baked in a standard 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well and set them aside—you’ll be combining everything shortly. The noodles are the base of this casserole and give it that classic, comforting texture. Make sure they’re cooked just to al dente so they don’t get too soft during baking.

 

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it starts to brown. Then stir in the diced onion and minced garlic and continue cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the onion is soft and the beef is fully cooked through. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from getting too greasy. This flavorful mixture will be layered into the creamy sauce for a rich, savory base.

 

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and 1/2 cup of milk. Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. This sauce is the heart of the casserole—it brings everything together with a creamy texture and deep, savory flavor that tastes like it’s been cooking all day.

 

Amish Country Casserole: Bringing It All Together

Now that you’ve got your noodles cooked, the beef mixture browned, and that creamy, flavor-packed sauce ready to go, it’s time to assemble the casserole. This part couldn’t be easier—and the reward is a bubbling, cheesy, oven-baked dish that tastes like home with every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a satisfying one-pan dinner, this recipe delivers. Let’s finish it up and get it ready for the oven.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Take your large mixing bowl with the sauce mixture and add in the cooked ground beef and onion mixture along with the drained egg noodles. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and all the noodles are coated with that rich, creamy sauce. The mixture should be thick and hearty, but not overly dry. If it looks a bit too thick, you can add another splash of milk to loosen it slightly. This step ensures that every bite of the casserole is packed with flavor and that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

 

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Top with Cheese

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little butter. Pour the noodle and beef mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This cheese melts into a golden, bubbly layer that ties everything together and adds that irresistible cheesy finish. If you like extra cheese (and who doesn’t?), feel free to sprinkle a little more. You can even mix in a handful of cheese with the casserole base for an extra-cheesy bite throughout.

Step 6: Bake Until Hot and Bubbly

Cover the casserole with foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top. This two-step baking method ensures the casserole heats evenly while keeping the cheese on top from overbaking. When it’s ready, the edges should be bubbling, and the smell will be hard to resist.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything settle and makes it easier to scoop. If you like, garnish with a little chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s not necessary, but it does add a nice touch—especially if you’re serving this to guests or bringing it to a gathering.

Easy Variations and Tips

• Swap the protein: Not a fan of ground beef? Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Stir in peas, corn, or sautéed mushrooms to bulk it up and add some extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture if you want a little kick.
• Go extra cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for added flavor and meltiness.

 

Amish Country Casserole: FAQ and Final Thoughts

Once you’ve pulled that bubbling, cheesy casserole out of the oven and served up a few warm, comforting scoops, there’s no doubt this dish will become a repeat favorite. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic and familiar, yet flexible enough to suit your kitchen and schedule. Before we wrap things up, here are answers to some of the most common questions people have when making this casserole. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for ways to customize, this section will help make every batch a success. 1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, this is a great make-ahead dish. You can fully assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven. 2. Can I freeze Amish Country Casserole? Absolutely. Assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed. You can also freeze individual portions for easy reheating. 3. What other types of soup can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom or cream of chicken? You can substitute with cream of celery, cream of onion, or any combination of creamy soups you enjoy. Just keep the total volume of soup the same—about two cans or 21 ounces. 4. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes. While egg noodles give the casserole that traditional texture, you can swap in other short pastas like rotini, penne, or shells. Just be sure to cook them al dente before mixing them in, so they don’t become too soft during baking. 5. How should I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger amounts in a 300°F oven until heated through. 6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute gluten-free versions of the cream soups (many stores carry these now). Just be sure to check all labels for any hidden gluten. 7. What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs well with simple sides like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, or even a slice of garlic bread for something extra hearty.

Conclusion: Why Amish Country Casserole Belongs in Your Recipe Box

Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated—and this Amish Country Casserole is proof. It’s easy to put together, filled with familiar, family-friendly flavors, and perfect for everything from a weeknight dinner to a potluck crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy sauce, tender noodles, savory beef, and melted cheese is hard to beat. And the best part? You can customize it to your taste, prep it ahead, and even freeze it for future meals. It’s that kind of dependable, no-fuss recipe you’ll turn to again and again. If you try this casserole, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you stick with the classic version or add your own twist? Leave a comment, share your favorite mix-ins, and let’s keep this comforting tradition going. Here’s to easy dinners and full plates! Print