Tucked away in the rolling farmlands of Pennsylvania and Ohio, Amish Country Casserole represents the heart of homestyle cooking – a dish that embodies warmth, simplicity, and generations of family tradition. This one-pan wonder transforms humble ingredients into a hearty, creamy meal that promises to comfort and satisfy even the hungriest family members.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Metric Measurements
- 450g ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped (approximately 150g)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (305g) condensed tomato soup
- 1 can (305g) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 240ml whole milk
- 200g uncooked egg noodles
- 200g shredded cheddar cheese
- 5g salt
- 2g black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent
- Create the Sauce
- Drain excess fat from the beef
- Add condensed tomato and mushroom soups
- Pour in milk and stir until well combined
- Season with salt and pepper
- Combine and Bake
- Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish
- Add uncooked egg noodles, stirring to ensure they’re evenly distributed
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes
- Finish and Serve
- Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to allow cheese to brown
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approximate):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce
- Make sure to stir noodles thoroughly to prevent uneven cooking
- Let the casserole rest to allow sauce to thicken
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free condensed soups and egg noodles
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace beef with plant-based ground meat or mushrooms
- Cheese Variations: Try Mexican blend or pepper jack for different flavor profiles
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes! Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 10-15 minutes to cooking time.
Q2: How can I make this dish healthier? A: Use low-fat soups, lean ground beef, and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Absolutely! Cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Q4: What side dishes pair well with this casserole? A: Green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread complement this dish perfectly.
Q5: Can I use different types of noodles? A: Yes, try whole wheat, rice, or gluten-free noodles as alternatives.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
This Amish Country Casserole brings the comfort of traditional Midwestern cooking right to your dinner table – a true testament to simple, delicious home cooking!