Amish Country Casserole

At its heart, Amish Country Casserole is a creamy, comforting hamburger noodle dish. You can use any type of noodles you like. For example, I like fusilli for its unique twisty shape, which adds a fun texture. Choose your favorite pasta to make it your own.

What’s great about this recipe is how simple and flexible it is. You can easily make more to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week. Adding vegetables is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor, making it a filling meal for everyone.

Amish Country Casserole Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Creating the perfect Amish Country Casserole is a breeze with this easy-to-follow guide. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.

These steps will lead you to a deliciously satisfying meal:

1. Choose Your Pasta: Start by picking your pasta. Traditionalists might opt for egg noodles, but feel free to use fusilli or any other pasta you prefer. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Remember, the pasta will cook further in the oven, so it’s best not to overcook it now.
2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook ground beef (or a meat alternative for a vegetarian twist) over medium heat. Stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked meat with a creamy sauce – you can use a simple mix of canned tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup for that authentic Amish touch. Add in your cooked pasta, blending everything thoroughly.
4. Add Your Twist: Here’s where you can get creative. Add diced onions, bell peppers, or even some leafy greens like spinach for an extra nutritional punch. This step is all about personalizing your casserole to your taste preferences.
5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. If you like a crispy top, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or grated cheese over the casserole. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes. This rest time allows it to set, making it easier to serve. Then, dish it out and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness of your homemade Amish Country Casserole.

This step-by-step guide ensures that your Amish Country Casserole will be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 500 grams (about 16 ounces) of your choice. Whether it’s fusilli, egg noodles, or any other type, it will work beautifully in this casserole.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing.
• Onion: 1 onion, finely chopped, adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic: 2 teaspoons of crushed garlic for a hint of aromatic flavor.
• Lean Ground Beef: 750 grams (approximately 1 and 1/2 pounds) for a hearty and filling base.
• Tomato Soup: 600 grams of canned condensed tomato soup (about 22.6 ounces). See the note in the post for specifics.
• Mushroom Soup: 600 grams of canned condensed mushroom soup (also 22.6 ounces). Check the note in the post for more details.
• Milk: 1 cup (250 ml or 8.45 fl oz) to create a creamy texture.
• Seasonings: Salt and black pepper to taste, along with 1/2 teaspoon each of paprika and dried parsley for extra flavor.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Prepare a large oven dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta as per the packet instructions until it reaches al dente.
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture: While the pasta cooks, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until they become soft. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s completely done.
4. Combine Everything: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the cooked meat, both the tomato and mushroom soups, and milk. Stir everything together, ensuring a consistent mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to your prepared oven dish. Sprinkle the top with paprika and dried parsley for an added touch of flavor and color. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and slightly golden on top.

Following these simple steps, you’ll create a delicious Amish Country Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and the comfort it brings to your table.

Tips for Perfect Amish Country Casserole

Creating the perfect Amish Country Casserole is easy with these helpful tips. Follow them to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

1. Pasta Choice Matters: While you can use any pasta, consider its shape and size. Pasta like fusilli or egg noodles not only hold the sauce well but also add a pleasing texture to your casserole.
2. Brown the Beef Right: Ensure your ground beef is well-browned. This not only cooks it thoroughly but also adds a rich depth of flavor. Drain the excess fat to keep your casserole from being too greasy.
3. Layer Flavors: Sauté your onions and garlic until they’re soft and aromatic before adding them to the casserole. This step releases their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Balance the Creaminess: The combination of tomato and mushroom soups with milk creates a creamy, rich base. Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more or less milk, depending on your preference.
5. Season Well: Don’t forget to season your casserole with salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. These seasonings add layers of flavor, making the casserole more dynamic and tasty.
6. Baking is Key: Bake your casserole until it’s bubbly and the top is slightly golden. This not only ensures everything is heated through but also adds a delightful texture to the top layer.
7. Rest Before Serving: Let your casserole sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This rest time allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
8. Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and variety.
9. Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen until you’re ready to bake it, making it a perfect meal for busy days.

By keeping these tips in mind

You’ll be able to whip up a comforting, flavorful Amish Country Casserole that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Amish Country Casserole is a success, be mindful of these common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta to just al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy.
2. Skipping the Browning Step: Properly browning the meat is crucial. It adds flavor and texture to the dish. Don’t rush this step.
3. Overloading with Ingredients: While customization is great, adding too many ingredients can overwhelm the dish. Balance is key.
4. Neglecting Seasoning: Season your casserole adequately. Underseasoning can make it bland, while overseasoning can overpower the delicate flavors.
5. Inconsistent Baking: Bake until the top is golden and bubbly. Underbaking can leave the casserole runny, and overbaking can dry it out.
6. Not Letting it Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The Amish Country Casserole is a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Here’s why:

1. Comfort in a Dish: Its creamy, rich texture and hearty ingredients offer the ultimate comfort food experience.
2. Easy and Versatile: Simple to prepare, with room for customization. Add your favorite veggies or switch up the pasta for a new twist every time.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a special gathering, this casserole fits the bill.
4. Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike, it’s a surefire way to please a crowd.
5. Make-Ahead Magic: Easily prepared in advance, it’s a lifesaver for busy days.
6. Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for later. It’s just as delicious reheated.
7. Economical: Using simple, budget-friendly ingredients, it’s a great way to feed a group without breaking the bank.
8. Nutritious: With the option to add vegetables, it can be a well-rounded meal packed with nutrients.
9. Consistently Delicious: Follow the recipe and tips, and you’re guaranteed a delicious outcome every time.

This Amish Country Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings people together, offering both taste and comfort.

Nutritional Profile of Amish Country Casserole

Knowing the nutritional content of Amish Country Casserole is helpful for people who watch their diet for health reasons. Let’s look at the main nutritional parts:

1. Calories: Amish Country Casserole is a hearty dish, and its calorie count can be quite high due to ingredients like pasta, ground beef, and condensed soups. However, portion control can help manage calorie intake.
2. Proteins: The lean ground beef in the casserole is a good source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
3. Carbohydrates: Pasta, the primary ingredient, is a significant source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities.
4. Fats: While the dish contains fats from the ground beef and olive oil, choosing lean beef and controlling the amount of oil can help keep fat content in check.
5. Fiber: Depending on the type of pasta used, the fiber content can vary. Whole grain pasta offers more fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.
6. Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of vegetables like onions and any others you choose to include can boost the vitamin and mineral content, especially vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium.
7. Sodium: Canned soups tend to be high in sodium, so it’s important to watch the sodium content if you’re on a low-sodium diet. Opting for low-sodium versions of canned soups can be a healthier choice.
8. Sugars: This casserole has minimal sugar content, primarily coming from the tomato soup.
9. Cholesterol: There is some cholesterol present, mainly from the beef and any cheese if added. Using lean cuts of meat can reduce the cholesterol level.

Remember:

The nutritional profile can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used. Switching to whole grain pasta, choosing leaner meat, and adding more vegetables can make this dish healthier while keeping it comforting and tasty.

Health Benefits

Amish Country Casserole is not only tasty but also healthy when made with the right ingredients:

1. High in Protein: The lean beef in the casserole is a great source of protein, important for muscle health and overall body function.
2. Provides Energy: The pasta in the dish gives you energy, necessary for daily tasks and well-being.
3. Nutritionally Versatile: Adding different veggies can boost the vitamins and minerals in the dish, making it healthier.
4. Option for Whole Grains: Using whole grain pasta can increase your fiber, good for digestion and weight management.
5. Flexible for Different Diets: The recipe can be changed to have less fat, less salt, or be vegetarian, so it’s suitable for many diets.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To ensure your Amish Country Casserole remains delicious after storage and reheating, follow these tips:

1. Cooling: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent bacterial growth.
2. Refrigeration: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Reheating in Oven: Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the pasta and the creaminess of the sauce.
5. Microwave Reheating: For a quick option, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Cover the dish and heat it on high, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
6. Avoid Multiple Reheatings: Try to reheat only the portion you plan to eat. Repeated reheating can affect the texture and flavor of the dish.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Amish Country Casserole with the same great taste even days after preparing it.

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