Amish Country Casserole: A Hearty and Delicious Family Recipe

Amish Country Casserole is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals right to your table. This hearty casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly evening. Rooted in the rich culinary traditions of the Amish community, this recipe showcases the simplicity and abundance of farm-fresh ingredients. The combination of tender noodles, savory meats, and a medley of vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and nourishing.

People love Amish Country Casserole for its incredible taste and texture, as well as its convenience. It’s a one-dish wonder that makes meal prep a breeze, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Join me as we explore the steps to create this beloved dish that has stood the test of time and continues to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the Meat Mixture

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, tomato sauce, frozen corn, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Preparing the Pasta

1. While the meat mixture is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want it to retain some of its starch to help thicken the casserole.

Combining Ingredients

1. After the meat mixture has simmered for 10 minutes, remove it from the heat. Gently fold in the cooked macaroni, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the meat and sauce mixture.
2. Now, it’s time to layer the casserole. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the meat and macaroni mixture evenly across the bottom.
4. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer of the casserole.
5. Top with the remaining meat and macaroni mixture, spreading it out evenly.
6. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

Baking the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese to prevent sticking.
2. Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
3. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
4. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve the Amish Country Casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
2. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Tips and Variations

• If you want to add more vegetables, consider incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into

  Conclusion:

  In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Amish Country Casserole recipe, I can confidently say that this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to bring warmth and comfort to their dining table. The combination of hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and the ease of preparation makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce a taste of traditional Amish cooking into your home. When serving this casserole, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the deliciousness. For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, feel free to add your own twist—perhaps some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor, or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. The beauty of the Amish Country Casserole is its versatility; you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any special ingredients? How did your family enjoy it? Sharing your thoughts not only helps me but also inspires others in our cooking community. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories with this Amish Country Casserole! Print
  

  Amish Country Casserole: A Hearty and Delicious Family Recipe

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  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

  Print Recipe

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  Description

  This hearty Amish Country Casserole features a delicious blend of ground beef, pasta, and vegetables, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting one-dish meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, offering a satisfying combination of flavors and textures.

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  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

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  Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, and drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, frozen corn, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. While the meat mixture simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  6. Drain the macaroni and set aside without rinsing.
  7. After the meat mixture has simmered, remove from heat and gently fold in the cooked macaroni.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  9. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the meat and macaroni mixture.
  10. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer.
  11. Top with the remaining meat and macaroni mixture, then sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese on top.
  12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  14. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  15. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

  Notes

  • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
  • Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes