Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Amish Country Casserole! This dish is one that brings a big smile to my family’s faces. It’s the kind of cozy comfort food that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I discovered it during one of my Pinterest adventures, and it quickly became a staple in our home. Every time I make it, the scent of hearty beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness fills the kitchen, making my husband and even our cat, who often just watches, perk up in excitement!
What I love most about this casserole is how simple it is to throw together, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. The layers of ground beef, pasta, and cheese not only make it super tasty but also very filling. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add your own twist with veggies or seasonings based on what you have on hand. If you’re looking for another comforting dish, you might want to check out my easy potato soup recipe; they pair perfectly for a cozy meal! Enjoy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Amish Country Casserole
- Comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd
- Loaded with rich flavors from ground beef or sausage and creamy mushroom sauce
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in under an hour!
- Cheesy goodness with a topping of melty cheddar that appeals to all ages
- Utilizes simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Versatile recipe; substitute with your favorite protein or noodle type
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness
This casserole brings together classic flavors in a way that’s sure to remind you of family gatherings and cozy home-cooked meals.
How to Make Amish Country Casserole
This Amish Country Casserole is comforting, hearty, and incredibly easy to make! It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With a creamy sauce and melty cheese, it’s a dish that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!
What You’ll Need:
- Egg noodles – 12 oz. These will be the base of your casserole, so I recommend using wide egg noodles for that perfect texture.
- Ground beef or sausage – 1 lb. Use whichever you prefer! I often go with ground sausage for a bit more flavor.
- Medium onion – 1, chopped. A sweet onion adds a lovely hint of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the casserole.
- Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.5 oz). Campbells’ is a classic choice that works perfectly here!
- Sour cream – 1 cup. Full-fat sour cream gives the sauce that creamy richness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup, plus more for topping if desired. I love sharp cheddar for its robust flavor!
- Milk – 1/2 cup. Use whole milk for a creamier sauce.
- Paprika – 1 tsp. This adds a lovely color and subtle smokiness.
- Salt and pepper – to taste. Simple but essential for enhancing all the flavors!
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish. It adds a beautiful touch of color when serving!
The Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a cleaner finish!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to get a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked noodles and the browned meat mixture to your bowl. Stir until everything is well combined and coated in that delicious sauce.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Don’t be shy – you want an even layer!
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. If you’re a cheese lover like me, feel free to add even more!
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want that extra gooeyness, sprinkle on some more cheese during the last few minutes!
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for that fresh touch.
Enjoy your hearty Amish Country Casserole! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Can I Substitute the Meat for a Vegetarian Option?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian! Swap out the ground beef or sausage for plant-based meat alternatives, or simply use a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Just sauté them until tender before adding to the casserole mixture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade version made with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and broth. Alternatively, blend cooked mushrooms with heavy cream and broth for a fresh take that’s creamy and flavorful!
