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Cheesy and comforting Amish Country Casserole has long earned its spot as my go to dish when everyone at the table is craving something hearty but I need dinner on the table fast. This recipe is all about ease with ground beef egg noodles and a blanket of melty cheddar baked until bubbly It is that old school recipe that reliably hits the spot and brings back memories of big family gatherings or weeknights with laughter around the table.
This was one of the first casseroles I made as a new parent and it instantly became a favorite for the pure comfort It is had on tough days when we all just needed something familiar and satisfying
Ingredients
- Ground beef: for hearty texture and savory flavor choose lean beef for less grease
- Chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth go for yellow onion for best results
- Minced garlic: for aromatic punch fresh cloves yield a stronger flavor
- Condensed tomato soup: creates a tangy rich sauce opt for quality brands without too much sugar
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: brings creaminess and thickness a classic foundation for many Amish style casseroles
- Milk: helps loosen the sauce and adds creaminess whole milk gives a richer taste
- Uncooked egg noodles: soak up the sauce and offer the best toothsome texture choose wide or medium for that classic look
- Shredded cheddar cheese: adds gooey goodness sharp cheddar gives the most flavor
- Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning taste as you go so the flavors pop
- Optional frozen peas: for color veggie boost and a touch of sweetness look for tender petite peas
When choosing your ingredients stick to real cheese and fresh onions for the best results The classic soups are non negotiable here for that signature creamy finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Get your oven hot at 350 degrees Fahrenheit which sets a steady base for even bubbling and browning of the casserole
- Brown the Meat and Aromatics:
- Warm a large skillet over medium high Add ground beef and break it up as it cooks Once most of the pink is gone sprinkle in chopped onion and minced garlic Cook gently until the onion looks translucent and soft letting those flavors release into the meat
- Make the Sauce:
- Stir in condensed tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup Pour in milk to loosen the mixture Season generously with salt and pepper Now is the moment to stir in those frozen peas if you want the pop of color and extra nutrition Let everything warm gently until combined and steamy
- Boil the Egg Noodles:
- Fill a separate pot with water and bring it to a strong boil Drop in the egg noodles and cook just until al dente You want them a little firm since they will finish cooking in the oven Drain the noodles promptly and set aside
- Combine and Layer:
- Gently mix the drained noodles into your skillet of beef and sauce Everything should be evenly coated Take a greased 9 by 13 inch baking dish and layer in half the mixture Sprinkle half the shredded cheddar over the top Smooth on the rest of the noodle mixture then finish with another blanket of cheese
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover your dish with foil to keep everything moist and bake for 25 minutes Peel back the foil and let it cook for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling out at the edges Let the dish rest for a few minutes so the portions hold together when served
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My favorite part has always been that layer of melted cheddar that bubbles and browns The smell reminds me of my grandmother pulling it out of the oven for Sunday lunch We have shared so many laughs while waiting impatiently for it to cool
Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or transfer to airtight containers and chill for up to four days This dish reheats best covered in the oven so the cheese gets melty again You can also freeze portions for up to two months simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground turkey or plant based crumbles if you want to swap out the beef Gluten free folks can use gluten free noodles and soups Without dairy use lactose free milk and cheese alternatives Season the same way and check brands for gluten or animal ingredients if needed
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad bright with vinegar or lemon to cut the richness Steamed green beans or fresh sliced tomatoes pair well for a summery spin If you love crunch scatter crispy onions over the top just before serving
A Bit of Context
This casserole recipe is rooted in old Amish and Midwest traditions when households stretched simple ingredients to create filling meals for farm families The use of canned soups was a practical innovation that made creamy hearty dinners accessible and quick to assemble Today this legacy lives on in casseroles like this one passed down and reinvented at countless family tables
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of ground beef works best?
Lean ground beef (around 85-90% lean) is ideal for rich flavor without excess grease. Drain after browning as needed.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake when ready to serve.
- → Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely before portioning into airtight containers. Reheat from thawed in the oven for best texture.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Stir in frozen peas, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped spinach for extra nutrition and color before baking.
- → What cheese substitutes can I use?
Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor, or use plant-based shreds for a dairy-free option.
- → Are gluten-free swaps possible?
Yes, simply use gluten-free egg noodles and soups to meet dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.