I first encountered this dish during a family trip to Pennsylvania. We visited an Amish community and had the pleasure of enjoying a home-cooked meal with a local family. The Amish way of life, with its emphasis on community and simplicity, really resonated with me. One bite of the casserole, with its rich, savory flavors, and I was hooked. Since then, it’s become a regular feature at our dinner table, especially during the colder months when we all crave something comforting.
The beauty of Amish Country Casserole lies in its flexibility. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For instance, I’ve tried using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version, and it was just as delicious. Adding a handful of fresh spinach or some diced bell peppers gives it a nice burst of color and nutrients. If you’re a cheese lover, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top before baking can take this casserole to a whole new level.
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With a busy schedule, having a go-to dish that I can quickly put together is a lifesaver. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are perfect for lunch the next day. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
Making Amish Country Casserole
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Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, lean
- 1 pound pasta, your choice
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons garlic, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley, dried
- 1 onion, chopped finely
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, extra-virgin
- 21 ounces mushroom soup, condensed
- 21 ounces tomato soup, condensed
- Salt and pepper to your taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- As the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a pan and sauté the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic until soft. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it browns.
- Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.
- Combine the cooked meat mixture, condensed tomato soup, condensed mushroom soup, and whole milk with the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle paprika and dried parsley on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until thoroughly heated.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of pasta for Amish Country Casserole?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer for Amish Country Casserole. Common choices include elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. Just ensure you cook it according to the package directions before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely, you can substitute ground beef with other proteins like ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. The cooking time and method will remain the same, but it might slightly alter the flavor of the casserole.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the condensed tomato and mushroom soups you use are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free options for these ingredients.
What can I add to make this casserole more nutritious?
To enhance the nutritional value, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the onion and garlic before adding the ground beef. This will add more vitamins and fiber to the dish.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Amish Country Casserole ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, bake it in a preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
What should I do if the casserole is too dry?
If the casserole turns out too dry, you can add a bit more milk or even some chicken broth to the mixture before baking. Additionally, covering the casserole with aluminum foil while baking can help retain moisture.
Amish Country Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta your choice
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons crushed garlic
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 21 oz condensed tomato soup
- 21 oz condensed mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions in a large pot.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion and garlic until tender. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Once the pasta is done, drain and return it to the pot.
- Mix in the cooked meat, tomato soup, mushroom soup, and milk with the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with paprika and dried parsley.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
