Name: Amish Country Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 ounce bag medium egg noodles; 1 pound ground beef; Salt and pepper, to taste; 10.75 ounce can tomato soup; 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup milk; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Contents

1 What Is Amish Country Casserole?
2 Ingredients Breakdown
3 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
4 Variations and Customizations
5 Serving Suggestions
6 Storage and Reheating
7 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
8 Conclusion
9 Amish Country Casserole Recipe
10 Spicy Honey Chicken
11 Healthy Buffalo Chicken Wrap
12 Gluten-Free Panera Bread Soups

What Is Amish Country Casserole?

Ah, the Amish Country Casserole—simple, unpretentious, and soul-satisfying. At its core, this dish is a creamy, baked noodle casserole made with egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, tomato soup, and cream of mushroom soup. Toss in a few pantry staples like milk, garlic, and onion flakes, and you’ve got yourself a belly-warming meal ready to hit the oven.

But where does it come from?

This recipe has deep roots in Amish and Mennonite communities, where hearty, one-dish meals are a way of life. These folks are known for their minimalist cooking—no fancy gadgets, no rare spices—just real food made with care. The casserole became popular beyond Amish households because, let’s be honest, it’s easy to make, affordable, and everyone loves it.

Whether you grew up with this dish or you’re new to it, there’s something universally nostalgic about a bubbling casserole served hot from the oven. It’s not just dinner—it’s a memory waiting to be made.

Why It’s a Favorite Comfort Food

Let’s face it—life gets busy. Sometimes you need a dinner option that doesn’t take an hour and a half or require a trip to three grocery stores. That’s where Amish Country Casserole steps in and saves the day.

Here’s why people adore it:

It’s Easy-Peasy: The steps are straightforward and perfect for beginners. No complicated techniques here.
Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are pantry staples—no need to splurge.
Customizable: Want to add veggies? Go for it. Need it meatless? Easy fix.
Comfort on a Plate: Creamy, warm, and filling—what more could you ask for?

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole delivers every time.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essential Ingredients

Before diving into the mixing bowl, let’s break down what goes into a classic Amish Country Casserole. These pantry-friendly ingredients work together to build a hearty and comforting dish with minimal effort.

Medium Egg Noodles: These are the backbone of the casserole—tender yet firm enough to hold their shape. They absorb all the creamy goodness without turning mushy.
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef adds a rich, savory base. It’s filling, flavorful, and affordable.
Tomato Soup & Cream of Mushroom Soup: These canned soups bring creamy, tangy balance. The tomato soup adds a gentle acidity, while the mushroom soup offers depth and umami.
Milk: Used to thin the soup mix and create a luscious sauce that clings to the noodles.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a couple teaspoons amplify the savoriness. It’s subtle, but noticeable in a good way.
Minced Garlic & Dried Onion Flakes: Flavor boosters! Garlic brings warmth and depth, while dried onion adds a hint of sweetness and texture.
Salt & Pepper: Always season to taste. Start light—especially with canned soups—and adjust as you go.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top before serving, it forms a golden, savory crust that’s downright irresistible.

Optional Add-ins and Substitutions

Want to make this dish your own? No problem! The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility.

Veggie Boost: Stir in frozen peas, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms. Great for sneaking in nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Meat Swaps: Try ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken. Prefer plant-based? Use lentils or meat alternatives like Beyond Beef.
Dairy Alternatives: For a lactose-free version, swap regular milk with oat, almond, or lactose-free milk. Vegan cream soups and dairy-free cheese work well, too.
Low-Carb Twist: Skip the noodles and use spiralized zucchini or riced cauliflower for a lighter option.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation

First things first—set yourself up for success with a clean kitchen and prepped ingredients.

Preheat Your Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). This allows for even baking and a perfectly browned top.
Grease the Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or brush with oil. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cook the Egg Noodles: Follow the package directions and cook them just until al dente. Overcooked noodles can become mushy in the oven, so keep them slightly firm.
Drain Well: After boiling, drain the noodles thoroughly. You don’t want excess water watering down your sauce.

Cooking the Beef Mixture

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Break it up with a wooden spoon for even browning.
Drain the Fat: Once cooked, drain off any excess grease. This keeps the casserole from becoming oily.
Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and onion flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine Meat and Sauce: Fold the cooked beef into the soup mixture and stir until evenly blended.
Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper gradually. Canned soups already contain sodium, so it’s best to season after combining.

Assembling the Casserole

Layer It Up: In your prepared baking dish, mix the cooked noodles with the beef-sauce mixture until well coated.
Smooth It Out: Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly. A flat surface ensures even baking and prevents dry edges.
Get Ready to Bake: Don’t cover it—you want the top to brown a bit!

Baking

Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top begins to turn golden.

After baking, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while it’s still hot so it melts slightly into the top layer. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture!

Variations and Customizations

Classic Variations

Mixing it up can add new life to a familiar favorite.

Extra Cheesy: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella before baking. You’ll get that stretchy, gooey finish everyone loves.
Creamy Ranch Style: Add a spoonful of ranch seasoning for a tangy twist.
Tex-Mex Flair: Add a teaspoon of taco seasoning and top with a sprinkle of corn or black beans.

Dietary Adaptations

Vegetarian: Replace the beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based ground “meat.” Make sure your soups are vegetarian-friendly, too.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and double-check that your soup brands are labeled gluten-free.
Low-Fat: Choose lean meat, low-fat soup, and skim milk. Skipping the cheese topping is also an option, but we wouldn’t blame you for keeping it!

If you’re looking to make this dish meat-free, consider using plant-based ground beef alternatives, which offer a similar texture and flavor while keeping the meal completely vegetarian.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Pairings

A rich, creamy casserole pairs best with something fresh and light to balance the flavors.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft inside—perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
Green Salad: A crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing brings a refreshing contrast.
Steamed Veggies: Carrots, green beans, or asparagus round out the meal without overpowering it.

Presentation Tips

Garnish Like a Pro: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds color and flavor.
Serve It Hot: This dish is best enjoyed warm. Reheating? Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Family-Style or Plated: Either scoop big servings into bowls for a casual dinner, or serve it plated with salad for a more formal touch.

Craving more cozy casseroles? Don’t miss the creamy, crowd-pleasing Million Dollar Chicken Casserole—a luxurious twist on traditional comfort food that’s just as simple to prepare.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

One of the best things about Amish Country Casserole? It stores like a dream!

Refrigerator: After cooling, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better overnight!
Freezer: Want to save some for later? Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Pro Tip: If freezing before baking, don’t add the cheese topping yet—save it for right before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Want that just-baked taste? Here’s how:

Microwave: Add a splash of milk to your serving, cover, and microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Oven: For larger portions, preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for 20–25 minutes. Top with cheese during the last 5 minutes.

Avoid overheating—it can dry out the noodles. Low and slow wins the race!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Amish Country Casserole Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Can This Be Made in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, though the texture will differ slightly. Assemble all ingredients (except cheese) and cook on low for 3–4 hours. Add cheese in the final 15–30 minutes to melt.

What Vegetables Work Well in This Casserole?

Great question! Try peas, mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or even riced cauliflower. Cook or steam them beforehand for the best texture.

How Do I Make It Vegetarian?

Swap out the beef for lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetarian cream soups and you’re good to go!

Can I Freeze Individual Portions?

Yes! Freeze in single-serving containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners. Just reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your complete guide to making the perfect Amish Country Casserole! With its creamy, beefy, noodle-packed goodness, this dish checks all the boxes: easy to make, budget-friendly, family-approved, and oh-so-satisfying.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe has you covered. Customize it, freeze it, share it—heck, make it your signature dish. And don’t be surprised when people start asking for the recipe.