The aroma of a hearty, homemade Amish ground beef casserole wafting through the kitchen has a way of bringing family together like nothing else. This traditional dish represents the essence of Amish cooking philosophy – simple ingredients transformed into soul-satisfying comfort food. Deeply rooted in community and tradition, Amish casserole recipes have stood the test of time because they combine practicality, flavor, and the ability to feed many hungry mouths with minimal fuss. Today, I’m sharing an authentic recipe that captures the heartwarming essence of Pennsylvania Dutch country cooking, perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday gatherings.
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Amish ground beef casserole
Main Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
– 1 large onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 1 pound egg noodles, uncooked
– 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Seasonings:
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Tools:
– 9×13 baking dish
– Large skillet
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wooden spoon
– Colander
Possible Substitutions:
– Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option
– Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
– Gluten-free noodles for dietary restrictions
– Cream of chicken soup can substitute for cream of mushroom
Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Amish ground beef casserole Dish
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
– Serves: 8-10 people
– Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Amish ground beef casserole Easily
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and celery to the beef and continue cooking until vegetables are tender, approximately 5 minutes.
4. Drain excess fat from the meat mixture and return to the skillet.
5. Stir in the seasonings – thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper – to the meat mixture. Add Worcestershire sauce and stir to incorporate.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth.
7. Combine the meat mixture with the soup mixture, stirring thoroughly.
8. Add the uncooked egg noodles to the mixture and stir until noodles are coated evenly.
9. Transfer everything to your greased baking dish and spread evenly.
10. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
11. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Creating a traditional Amish ground beef casserole might seem straightforward, but the magic lies in allowing time for the flavors to meld together. Many Amish casserole recipes rely on this patient approach to cooking.
Nutritional Benefits of This Amish ground beef casserole Recipe
– Protein: Approximately 25g per serving from the ground beef
– Calcium: Roughly 20% of daily needs from cheese and dairy
– Iron: About 15% of daily requirements
– Vitamins: B vitamins from beef and small amounts of vitamin C from vegetables
– Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving
– Carbohydrates: Around 40g per serving
– Fat: Approximately 25g per serving
Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Amish ground beef casserole Lovers
– Vegetable Additions: Add 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or green beans for more nutrition
– Cheese Variations: Try a mixture of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile
– Crockpot Method: Cook on low for 4-5 hours after browning the meat
– Topping Options: Add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top for extra crunch
– Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Amish ground beef casserole
1. Using pre-cooked noodles: The uncooked noodles absorb flavor and liquid during baking.
2. Over-browning the beef: Cook just until no pink remains to keep it juicy.
3. Skipping the resting time: Let the casserole rest 10-15 minutes before serving to set properly.
4. Under-seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings before baking for best flavor.
5. Uncovered baking: The foil helps cook the noodles evenly before browning the cheese.
Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Amish ground beef casserole Fresh
– Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
– Reheating: Warm in microwave at 50% power or in oven at 325°F until heated through.
– Freshening: Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore moisture.
– Meal Prep: Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for 24 hours before baking.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Amish ground beef casserole at Home
The humble Amish ground beef casserole represents more than just a meal—it’s a connection to a simpler way of cooking focused on nourishment and togetherness. What makes this dish special is its uncomplicated approach using everyday ingredients that transform into something greater than their parts. Like many traditional Amish casserole recipes, this one brings comfort to your table while honoring the practical wisdom of generations past. Whether you’re feeding a large family or looking for leftovers that improve with time, this casserole delivers on all fronts.
FAQs About Cooking Amish ground beef casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, thaw in refrigerator overnight before cooking. If freezing after baking, thaw and reheat at 325°F until hot throughout.
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can substitute rotini, penne, or even broken lasagna noodles. Just ensure they’re uncooked when added to the casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the noodles are tender, the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the cheese is golden and bubbly on top.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, dinner rolls, or pickled beets make excellent traditional accompaniments to this hearty dish.