Description

This Amish Country Casserole is the perfect dish for when you need a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy. Packed with flavorful ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy sauce made from tomato and mushroom soups, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this casserole is sure to bring everyone to the table with its rich flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into how to create this classic, heart-warming dish!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 pound of pasta
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 teaspoons of minced garlic
• One 22.6-ounce can of condensed tomato soup
• One 22.6-ounce can of condensed mushroom soup
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley (optional)
• Shredded cheese of your choice (optional)

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. The pasta will continue to soften as it bakes in the casserole.

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. The garlic and onion will give the dish a savory, aromatic base.

Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy.

Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the condensed tomato soup, condensed mushroom soup, and 1 cup of milk. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture will create a rich and creamy sauce for the casserole, with the tomato soup adding sweetness and the mushroom soup adding depth.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the browned beef, then pour in the soup mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta and beef are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Assemble the Casserole: Grease a large casserole dish with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray. Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheese of your choice (such as cheddar or mozzarella) over the top for an extra layer of gooey goodness.

Add Paprika and Parsley: For a bit of color and extra flavor, sprinkle paprika over the top of the casserole. If you’re using dried parsley, sprinkle that on as well for a touch of herbal brightness.

Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly. The cheese, if added, should be melted and slightly golden on top.

Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, with its creamy sauce and savory beef creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For added texture and flavor, consider stirring in some sautéed mushrooms or peas before baking. You can also swap out the pasta for egg noodles to give the dish a more traditional Amish feel. Leftovers reheat wonderfully, so this casserole is also a great make-ahead meal.

Conclusion:
This Amish Country Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy tomato-mushroom sauce makes it an instant classic. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite. Serve it with a simple salad or crusty bread, and enjoy a taste of Amish tradition that’s heart-warming and satisfying!