Amish Country Casserole

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There’s something so comforting about a bubbling, cheesy casserole pulled fresh from the oven, and Amish Country Casserole delivers every bit of that homey goodness. I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, especially on cozy weeknights when I want something hearty, simple, and absolutely satisfying. It’s a dish that reminds me of warmth and tradition, with every bite full of creamy pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese that brings everything together.

The first time I prepared this, I was in search of a no-fuss meal that felt like a hug in a bowl. With a few humble pantry staples and minimal prep, I had a piping hot casserole on the table in under an hour. The whole family devoured it, and it instantly became part of our regular meal rotation. Over time, I’ve added my own twists, but the essence of the recipe remains: it’s easy, indulgent, and universally loved.

One of my favorite things about this Amish Country Casserole is how it can feed a crowd while staying budget-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for a potluck, bringing dinner to a friend, or just making sure there are leftovers for lunch the next day, this dish holds up beautifully. I can honestly say it’s one of those recipes that just works — no fancy steps, no complicated ingredients, just honest, real food.

Why You’ll Love This Amish Country Casserole

This recipe is all about comfort and ease. It uses ingredients you likely already have, and you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. The flavor is rich without being overwhelming, and the texture is that perfect balance of creamy and cheesy with a little crispy top from the oven. It’s also a great make-ahead meal, and leftovers taste just as good reheated. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just someone who appreciates a good old-fashioned meal, this casserole won’t let you down.

Ingredients

Egg noodles are the base of this dish, offering a tender texture and a neutral flavor that carries the creamy sauce and meat beautifully. I prefer wide egg noodles for their ability to hold everything together, but you can use medium ones too.

Ground beef is essential for bringing that savory, hearty profile. It cooks quickly, adds protein, and becomes the meaty backbone of the casserole. I like using lean ground beef to cut down on excess grease.

Tomato soup adds richness and a subtle tang, giving depth to the sauce without overpowering the dish. It also keeps everything moist and ties all the flavors together.

Cream of mushroom soup adds creamy complexity and a savory umami note that makes the dish feel complete. Even if you’re not a mushroom fan, it blends in and adds incredible flavor.

Shredded cheddar cheese is the glue that pulls this dish into gooey, golden perfection. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works beautifully if you want a stretchier texture.

Milk helps loosen the soups into a smooth sauce and ensures the casserole stays luscious and creamy.

Salt and pepper are basic but crucial. They elevate every element and bring harmony to the dish. Don’t skip them!

How to Make Amish Country Casserole

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

Start by cooking the egg noodles in salted boiling water until just al dente. You don’t want them too soft, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a large bowl, stir together the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles and browned beef into the soup mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Top with Cheese

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to adapt this casserole without losing its cozy charm. For the protein, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for beef and still deliver that hearty bite. If you’re craving more vegetables, stir in some sautéed mushrooms, peas, or even spinach for a nutritional boost. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken for a slightly different twist.

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and double-check your canned soups for hidden gluten. And if you’re looking to cut back on dairy, try using a plant-based milk and cheese substitute—though keep in mind, the final texture and flavor will change slightly.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Amish Country Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette for some fresh contrast. A side of garlic bread or soft dinner rolls also makes a great addition, perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For something refreshing, serve it with roasted zucchini and squash or even a cool cucumber salad.

When I’m entertaining, I’ll add a cozy soup like this creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup to start the meal—it sets the tone for a homey, satisfying dinner.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This casserole also freezes beautifully. Just wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Then warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of milk before reheating if the casserole looks dry—it brings the creamy texture back to life.

FAQs

How do I make Amish Country Casserole ahead of time?

You can fully assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge—just add 10 extra minutes to the cook time.

Can I freeze Amish Country Casserole?

Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, or bake straight from frozen and increase the bake time accordingly.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup in Amish Country Casserole?

You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. For a homemade option, mix milk with a roux and sautéed mushrooms or onions.

Is Amish Country Casserole good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge or freezer and reheats easily, making it ideal for busy weeknights or grab-and-go lunches.

Can I use different types of cheese in Amish Country Casserole?

Definitely! While cheddar is classic, mozzarella adds stretchiness and gouda or Monterey Jack adds a creamy richness. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love the cozy, comforting flavors of Amish Country Casserole, you should definitely try my French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. It has that same down-home, hearty appeal with a rich, savory twist. Another great option is the Chicken Biscuit Casserole, which layers tender chicken and fluffy biscuits in a creamy sauce—a real crowd-pleaser. And if you’re craving something veggie-forward, check out the Roasted Zucchini and Squash Recipe for a colorful, healthy side that pairs beautifully with casseroles.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Amish Country Casserole to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it whenever comfort food calls. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family—whether it’s a link in your group chat, a post on your Facebook timeline, or a quick text to someone who needs an easy dinner idea. Sharing is caring, and this casserole is too good not to pass along!

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