Description: A comforting and hearty casserole that brings the flavors of Amish country cooking to your table. This easy-to-make dish combines egg noodles, ground beef, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese for a satisfying and delicious meal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
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
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Set the prepared dish aside.
Step 2: Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Be sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked noodles can become mushy in the casserole. Once cooked, drain the noodles well to remove any excess water.
Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until it is browned. Use a spatula to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. This is the time to add other seasonings if you like, such as garlic powder or onion powder. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!
Step 4: In a large bowl, stir together the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and dried onion flakes. Make sure the ingredients are well combined to create a smooth and flavorful sauce. The Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Step 5: Add the cooked egg noodles and browned ground beef to the bowl with the sauce. Gently stir to combine, ensuring that the noodles and beef are evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure that the casserole cooks uniformly.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly. The top should be lightly golden brown.
Step 8: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. This adds a salty, cheesy crust that is simply irresistible. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 9: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set slightly.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Amish Country Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and time. The ingredient list is straightforward, with components readily available in most pantries. Its comforting and familiar flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a family gathering. The combination of egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy, flavorful sauce creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is both satisfying and delicious. The addition of Parmesan cheese provides a delightful salty and cheesy crust that elevates the dish to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this Amish Country Casserole is sure to become a new family favorite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, directly from the baking dish.
- Pair with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli add a healthy and colorful side dish.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a side of mashed potatoes.
- Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use ground beef with a higher fat content.
- Add vegetables such as diced onions, carrots, or celery to the ground beef while cooking.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to make it a leaner dish.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack, in place of Parmesan.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: 25-35 grams per serving
- Sodium: 700-900mg per serving
Conclusion:
This Amish Country Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its comforting flavors, simple ingredients, and quick preparation make it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of egg noodles, ground beef, and a creamy sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese, creates a satisfying and delicious meal that is both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Amish country cooking in the comfort of your own home. This casserole is a true testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into a truly satisfying meal. It’s a comforting hug in a dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones and creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use a different type of noodle in this casserole? Yes, you can substitute other types of noodles for the egg noodles. Penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni would work well. Just be sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add some vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed lentils or beans for added protein. Consider using vegetable broth instead of milk for a richer flavor.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help it cook more evenly.
- What can I add to this casserole to make it spicier? If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper to the ground beef while cooking. Another option is to use a spicy sausage instead of ground beef. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper would also do the trick. Just be careful not to add too much, as you don’t want to overpower the other flavors.
