Hello, comfort food lovers! If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, this Amish Country Casserole is the perfect choice. Combining ground beef, tender macaroni, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a dish the whole family will adore. Let’s dive into this comforting classic that’s sure to become a favorite!
Introduction
Amish cuisine is all about simplicity, hearty flavors, and bringing people together over a meal. This Amish Country Casserole embodies those values with its blend of familiar ingredients and comforting taste. A true crowd-pleaser, it’s versatile enough for a busy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Its rich, creamy base and cheesy topping make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables without anyone complaining!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Amish Country Casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed tomato soup
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
These ingredients are pantry staples for many, making this recipe convenient and easy to prepare.
How to Make Amish Country Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare Amish Country Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Stir in the condensed tomato soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with their juices, frozen corn, and frozen peas. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
While the beef mixture simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and add it to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and stir until everything is well combined.
Transfer the beef and macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring it covers the casserole completely.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden brown, slightly crisp cheese topping.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and added freshness. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork, or substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- You can swap elbow macaroni for other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells if you prefer.
- To add a touch of spice, mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Cooking Tips
Here are some additional tips to perfect your Amish Country Casserole:
- Layer the Cheese: For an extra cheesy casserole, layer some of the cheese in the middle of the dish before adding the final layer on top.
- Fresh Veggies: If you have fresh vegetables on hand, such as diced bell peppers or chopped zucchini, feel free to add them to the skillet along with the onions and garlic.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Amish Country Casserole alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a more indulgent pairing, garlic bread or dinner rolls complement the casserole beautifully. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone as a main course, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional content for one serving of Amish Country Casserole:
- Calories: 410
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Potassium: 510mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 10%
This dish is hearty and filling, offering a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs to satisfy your hunger.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions on medium power.
Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh diced tomatoes can be used in place of canned. Simply peel and dice about 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, and use them with their juices.
What other cheeses work well for this recipe?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese are excellent alternatives or additions to cheddar for a creamier, meltier topping.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a meat-free version.
Related Recipes
Here are some similar recipes you might enjoy:
- Classic Shepherd’s Pie
- Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie
- Loaded Baked Ziti
- Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Conclusion
The Amish Country Casserole is a true testament to the beauty of simple, hearty cooking. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and cheesy topping make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing dinner for your family, this casserole is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!