Indulge in the comforting flavors of the heartland with Amish Country Casserole, a beloved dish that combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying meal. This classic recipe is a staple in Amish kitchens, known for its delicious taste and easy preparation. With ground beef, pasta, and creamy tomato-mushroom sauce, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the Amish country and learn how to make this delightful 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)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed tomato soup, condensed mushroom soup, and milk. Mix until smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- In the greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta on the bottom.
- Spread half of the browned ground beef mixture over the pasta.
- Pour half of the prepared sauce evenly over the beef and pasta layers.
6. Repeat the Layers:
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta, ground beef, and sauce.
7. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, if desired.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ground beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a cheesy twist.
- Creamy Texture: For an extra creamy texture, mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese with the sauce before layering.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Amish Country Casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Is there a low-carb version of this recipe? A: To make a low-carb version of this casserole, substitute the pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Use low-carb tomato and mushroom soup alternatives, or make your own keto-friendly sauce from scratch.
Q: Can I make this casserole keto-friendly? A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version of Amish Country Casserole by replacing the pasta with cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles. Use keto-approved ingredients for the sauce and omit the optional shredded cheese topping.
Keto-Friendly Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Amish Country Casserole, replace the pasta with cooked cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles. Use keto-friendly tomato and mushroom soup alternatives or make your own sauce using low-carb ingredients. Omit the optional shredded cheese topping to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Variation:
To make a low-carb variation, substitute the pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Use low-carb tomato and mushroom soup alternatives or make your own sauce from scratch using fresh tomatoes and mushrooms. Limit the amount of added dairy, such as cheese, to reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, Amish Country Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of ground beef, pasta, and creamy tomato-mushroom sauce. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this casserole is sure to please the whole family. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the comforting flavors of Amish Country Casserole tonight!
