Homestyle Comfort: Amish Country Casserole Recipe
Get ready to experience the cozy flavors of home with our Amish Country Casserole recipe. This hearty and satisfying dish brings together the wholesome goodness of lean ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato and mushroom soups for a meal that’s sure to warm your soul. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or bringing to a potluck gathering, this casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delicious comfort food classic!
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:
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Cook Pasta: While the ground beef is cooking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked pasta, condensed tomato soup, condensed mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried parsley (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added color and nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of pasta for this recipe. Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni would work well.
Q: Can I use homemade tomato and mushroom soup instead of canned? A: Absolutely! If you prefer homemade soup, you can use your own recipes for tomato and mushroom soup instead of canned.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply bake it as directed when ready to serve.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this casserole, substitute the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. Use a low-carb tomato soup and mushroom soup, and ensure that the milk used is unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream.
Low-Carb Version:
To reduce the carb content of this casserole, use a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash. Opt for low-carb tomato and mushroom soups, and use cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
In conclusion, our Amish Country Casserole recipe is a timeless favorite that brings together the flavors of home in a comforting and satisfying dish. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal for a cozy night in or need a dish to share at a potluck gathering, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll turn to time and time again. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of homestyle comfort with this delicious casserole!
