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Amish Country Casserole Recipe

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A Taste of Tradition: Amish Country Casserole Recipe

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Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Amish country with our flavorful Amish Country Casserole recipe! This hearty dish combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-mushroom sauce for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner at home or planning a potluck feast, this Amish-inspired casserole is sure to satisfy. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to elevate your casserole game to the next level.

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 and Prep:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook 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, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Prepare the Pasta:
    • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, cooked pasta, condensed tomato soup, condensed mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried parsley, if using. Mix until well combined.
  5. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
  7. Add Cheese (Optional):
    • If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking, and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • For added flavor, you can sauté additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic.
  • Experiment with different types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or egg noodles for a unique twist on this classic dish.
  • Customize the seasoning to your taste by adding herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Substitute the pasta with spiralized vegetables such as zucchini or spaghetti squash to reduce carb content.
  • Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, lower-carb sauce.
  • Omit the condensed soups and make a homemade keto-friendly sauce using tomato paste, mushrooms, and cream.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Limit the amount of pasta used or omit it entirely for a lower-carb option.
  • Use a low-carb tomato sauce or marinara sauce instead of condensed tomato soup.
  • Replace the condensed mushroom soup with a homemade cream sauce made from heavy cream, butter, and sautéed mushrooms.

In conclusion, our Amish Country Casserole recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty combination of ground beef, pasta, and flavorful sauces, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this Amish-inspired casserole is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of tradition with this comforting and flavorful dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later? A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of the Amish Country Casserole? A: Absolutely! Leftover casserole can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter option. Simply cook the ground meat as directed until fully cooked through.

Q: Can I add additional vegetables to the casserole? A: Of course! Feel free to customize the casserole by adding your favorite vegetables such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach to the mixture before baking.

Q: Can I make this casserole without condensed soups? A: Yes! If you prefer to avoid condensed soups, you can make a homemade sauce using tomato sauce, beef broth, and thickening agents such as flour or cornstarch. Simply adjust the seasonings to taste and use as directed in the recipe.