This Easy Amish Country Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy days or family gatherings.
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to put together. Just mix everything in one dish, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. Who doesn’t enjoy less cleanup? 😄
This casserole is not only delicious, but it also feeds a crowd! I often serve it with a big salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that’s always a hit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the protein base of the casserole. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Some even like to mix in some sausage for extra flavor!
Elbow Macaroni: While traditional, any small pasta will work well here. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, try whole wheat pasta. Gluten-free pasta works too if you’re avoiding gluten.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’d rather a milder taste, Monterey Jack or Colby cheese can be used instead. Vegan cheese is also a good alternative for a plant-based option.
Sour Cream: You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier twist – it adds creaminess too! If you’re dairy-free, look for coconut or cashew-based yogurt.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make your own using a basic white sauce and sautéed mushrooms. Any cream soup can substitute if you prefer a different flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta is Cooked Just Right?
Getting the pasta just right is key! You want it to be al dente, meaning it should be firm when bitten, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Here’s how:
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but set a timer for 1-2 minutes less than recommended. Check the texture before draining.
- Once drained, rinse the pasta briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. It’ll help keep it from getting too soft while baking.
Following these tips will ensure your casserole has the right pasta texture, perfectly complementing the creamy filling. Enjoy! 🍽️
Easy Amish Country Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (16-ounce) container sour cream
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Amish Country Casserole requires about 15 minutes for prep time, plus 30-40 minutes of baking time. In total, you can expect about 1 hour from start to finish, and it’s worth every minute for the warm, comforting dish you’ll create!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until it’s al dente, then drain it and set it aside.
2. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook them together until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the casserole from being too greasy!
3. Mix it Up
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef and onion mixture, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (save about 1 cup for later), sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), milk, and melted butter. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top so it gets nice and melty while baking!
5. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for it to be hot and bubbly, with the cheese on top melted and slightly golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Once it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will help it set a little and make serving easier! Enjoy your comforting Amish Country Casserole with a side of fresh green vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal!
FAQ About Easy Amish Country Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. It will still deliver delicious flavor while cutting down on calories and fat. Just make sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink!
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms or add some cooked lentils for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to keep it creamy!
