This Amish Casserole is a cozy dish with layers of pasta, beef, and cheese. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners. Plus, it’s easy to make in one pot!
You can always count on this casserole to please a crowd. I often make extra so I have leftovers for lunch. Who doesn’t love cheesy pasta magic? 😄
I love how quick this dish comes together. Just cook, mix, and bake! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and it warms up wonderfully too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These give a classic texture to the casserole. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta instead. They might change the flavor slightly, but they will still hold up well in the dish.
Ground Beef or Turkey: I usually pick ground beef for richer flavor, but ground turkey is a fantastic lighter alternative. If you’re vegetarian, you could use lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat substitute for protein.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you’re avoiding processed food, you can make your own by combining sautéed mushrooms with heavy cream and broth. Alternatively, cream of chicken or even a homemade cheese sauce can work well.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles: These bring a nice kick and flavor. If you want to adjust the heat, use plain diced tomatoes or mild salsa. You could also add fresh peppers for a fresher taste!
Cottage Cheese: It adds creaminess and protein. But if you don’t like it, ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt can be good substitutes. Both maintain the creamy texture and will mix in nicely.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole Doesn’t Dry Out in the Oven?
One common struggle with casseroles is keeping them moist while baking. Here are a few tips to keep the dish juicy and delicious:
- Make sure your meat is well-cooked but not dried out before mixing it with other ingredients. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- When combining ingredients, don’t skimp on mixing. Ensure that the sauce coats everything well, which helps retain moisture.
- If you’re concerned about dryness, cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking. Remove it for the last 10-15 minutes to let the cheese brown.
- Check if your casserole looks dry before the cooking time is up; if it does, you can add a splash of broth or water.
How to Make Amish Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Amish casserole will take about 20 minutes for prep and an additional 30 minutes in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish before you can enjoy this hearty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and warm for your casserole later on.
2. Prepare the Egg Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the water and set them aside for now.
3. Cook the Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is soft and translucent. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, the meat mixture, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, cottage cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Take your greased 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the noodle mixture into it. Spread it out evenly across the bottom. Now, take the rest of the cheddar cheese and sprinkle it generously on top!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll want it to be hot, bubbly, and for the cheese to be melted and just a little golden.
7. Final Touches:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious Amish casserole!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles give a classic texture, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef or turkey. You can substitute it with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or even a plant-based meat alternative for added protein and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent the cheese from overbrowning.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance! Just follow all the steps until baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
