Amish Country Casserole

There’s something truly magical about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven and this Amish Country Casserole delivers on every level. Creamy, satisfying, and made with simple pantry staples, it’s the perfect throw-together meal that feels like a big cozy hug on a plate.

Tender pasta, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce are all cooked together in this meal, which is covered in melted cheese. It’s a meal that’s as hearty as it is humble easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole checks all the boxes.

And here’s a fun fact: While not an official “Amish” recipe, its simplicity and use of affordable ingredients are what give it that rustic charm. It’s the kind of dish you imagine bubbling away in a farmhouse oven, ready to feed a table full of smiles.

What is Amish Country Casserole?

So, what exactly is Amish Country Casserole? Imagine the love child of beefy pasta bake and creamy tuna casserole without the tuna. It’s a nostalgic, ultra-comforting baked pasta dish featuring elbow noodles or egg noodles, ground beef, a tomato and cream base, and a light cheese topping.

Why is it called “Amish”? No one’s totally sure but in the world of comfort food, “Amish” often translates to wholesome, simple, and satisfying. And this dish fits the bill perfectly. As they say, “The way to the heart is through the stomach” so go ahead and win hearts tonight with this cozy bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients – You probably have everything you need in your pantry already.
• Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters go back for seconds.
• Excellent for Leftovers –They get even better the following day.
• Freezer-Friendly – Make one now, freeze one for later.
• Budget-Conscious – Feeds a crowd without emptying your wallet.

How to Make Amish Country Casserole

Quick Overview

This casserole is as easy as it gets: boil pasta, brown beef, stir in sauce ingredients, combine, bake, and enjoy. It’s a true “set it and forget it” kind of meal.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Preparation
Egg noodles	12 oz	Cooked al dente
Ground beef	1 lb	Browned and drained
Onion	1 medium	Finely chopped
Garlic powder	½ tsp	–
Tomato soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	–
Cream of mushroom soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	–
Milk	½ cup	–
Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp	–
Salt and pepper	To taste	–
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup	Divided
Optional: parsley	For garnish	Chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Be careful not to overcook since they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Brown the Beef

Cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a large pan over medium heat until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess oil and add salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Mix the Sauce

Add Worcestershire sauce, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and tomato soup and stir. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined and warmed through.

Combine with Pasta

Put the cooked pasta and meat sauce in a big bowl. Stir until the noodles are fully coated.

Layer and Top

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and melted. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

What to Serve with Amish Country Casserole

This creamy, hearty casserole is a full meal on its own, but the right sides can elevate it into a comforting feast. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday supper or a weeknight dinner, these pairing ideas bring a perfect balance of flavor and texture to the table:

Roasted Cabbage Salad – Crunchy, hearty, and slightly tangy, this salad is the perfect fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.

Sweet Potato Pancakes – Slightly sweet and savory, they work well as a side for brunch-style servings or dinner.

Chicken Salad Chick Recipe – If you’re making this casserole for a potluck, serve with a light and creamy chicken salad on the side.

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread – Fluffy, fragrant, and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Pumpkin Banana Bread – For dessert, this moist, spiced loaf rounds out a comforting dinner perfectly.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Amish Country Casserole

Use Al Dente Pasta – Be sure to cook your noodles just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking as it continues to absorb moisture from the sauce.

Don’t Over-Salt Early – With tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup already in the mix, this dish packs plenty of sodium. Taste before adding extra salt and season gradually to avoid overwhelming the flavors.

Mix Cheeses for Depth – While cheddar is classic, mixing it with mozzarella or Monterey Jack gives you a creamier melt and more complex cheesy goodness.

Add Hidden Veggies – Stir in some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or peas to sneak in nutrition without altering the cozy flavor profile.

Use the Right Dish – A standard 9×13-inch pan works best. It gives everything enough room to bake evenly without overflowing.

Make It Ahead – This casserole is a dream for meal prep. Just assemble it the day before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

How to Store and Reheat Amish Country Casserole

Refrigeration:
Let the casserole cool completely. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container or cover with foil. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or full pans in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing:
To freeze, prepare the casserole without baking it. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Before baking as directed, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Tip:
To restore the moisture and creaminess, add a dash of milk before warming. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

FAQs About Amish Country Casserole

Can you prepare a casserole the day before?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead. Simply assemble the dish, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator overnight. Bake when ready for a quick, hands-off dinner.

Why do casseroles have to sit overnight?

Letting casseroles sit overnight allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to soak into the pasta. This results in an even more flavorful and cohesive dish.

How long can you refrigerate a casserole before baking?

You can refrigerate an unbaked casserole for up to 24 hours. Make sure it’s well covered to prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors.

Do I need to cover my casserole in the oven or can I leave it?

For this recipe, you can bake it uncovered to allow the cheese to melt and brown. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

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