Looking for a comforting and satisfying dish to add to your family dinner rotation or bring to your next potluck? Look no further than this Amish Country Casserole recipe! Packed with tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a staple on your menu. Follow these easy steps to whip up a batch of this delicious casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz medium egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (10.5 oz) can tomato soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can unsalted cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion flakes
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion flakes. Mix until well combined.
- Add the cooked ground beef and egg noodles to the soup mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the noodle mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and serve it hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic Amish-inspired dish with your loved ones!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Serve this Amish Country Casserole piping hot straight from the oven for maximum flavor and comfort.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Pair this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- You can also freeze portions of the casserole for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen casseroles can be reheated in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variations:
- Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian twist, skip the ground beef and add in your favorite vegetables instead. Try diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Amp up the cheesy goodness by adding a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole before baking. Let it melt and bubble for an extra indulgent touch.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Give this classic casserole a Tex-Mex flair by swapping out the tomato soup for salsa and adding a can of black beans and a diced jalapeño to the mix. Top with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish.
- Italian-Inspired: Infuse some Italian flavors by using marinara sauce instead of tomato soup and adding Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives to the mixture. Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan for an authentic taste.
- Creamy Chicken: Replace the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter alternative. Add in a can of drained diced tomatoes and a handful of chopped spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce or diced green chilies to the mixture before baking. Top with sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
FAQs :
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
- Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta. Adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, then bake it when ready. Just note that you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
- Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk and vegan cream of mushroom soup to make this casserole dairy-free. Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or peas to enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor
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Can I omit the Worcestershire sauce?
- While Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor, you can omit it if you prefer. Alternatively, you can substitute with soy sauce or steak sauce for a similar umami taste.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
- Yes, simply use gluten-free egg noodles and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free. Check labels to confirm gluten-free status, especially for soups and sauces.
- Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
- Absolutely! Fresh minced garlic can be used in place of garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor. Use about 2-3 cloves, minced finely.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this Amish Country Casserole recipe is a breeze to make and is guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to share at a gathering, this comforting casserole is sure to please. Give it a try and savor the delicious flavors of homemade goodness!