Description

Amish Country Casserole is a classic, comforting dish that embodies the simplicity and heartiness of traditional Amish cooking. Made with tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy sauce crafted from tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup, this casserole is baked to golden perfection. It’s the ideal meal for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner, with flavors that are sure to please both kids and adults alike. The dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Scale

12-ounce bag medium egg noodles: These provide the base for the casserole, offering a tender bite that soaks up the savory sauce.
1 pound ground beef: Adds protein and a hearty texture to the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavor of the ground beef.
10.75-ounce can tomato soup: Contributes a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the beef.
10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and a subtle earthy flavor.
1 cup milk: Helps to thin out the soups, creating a smooth, pourable sauce.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami to the overall flavor profile.
½ teaspoon minced garlic: Infuses the casserole with a gentle garlic aroma and taste.
2 tablespoons dried onion flakes: Provide a hint of onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, it adds a nutty, savory finish to the baked casserole.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing the oven in advance ensures it reaches the correct temperature by the time you are ready to bake the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish, making serving and cleanup easier.

Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles

Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them in salted water for about 7-9 minutes until tender. Once cooked, drain the noodles well and set them aside.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is fully browned and crumbled. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and dried onion flakes. Stir until all ingredients are well blended, forming a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Beef with Sauce

Add the cooked egg noodles and browned ground beef to the bowl of sauce. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the sauce. Be careful not to break up the noodles.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that the casserole bakes uniformly and every bite is filled with a mix of ingredients.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the top is lightly golden brown.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. The heat from the casserole will melt the cheese slightly, adding a delicious final touch.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Amish Country Casserole hot, alongside garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or to meet specific dietary needs. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. You can also enhance the casserole by adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles and soups. For those who enjoy a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of your favorite spices or an extra layer of cheese on top before baking. No matter how you choose to make it, Amish Country Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily tailored to suit any occasion.