Amish country casserole

Directions

Ingredients Overview

Ground Beef (1 pound): Adds a hearty, savory base. Opt for lean beef to minimize excess grease, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.

Onion (1, chopped): Brings a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. A yellow or white onion works best for this casserole.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the flavor with a subtle kick. Fresh garlic is ideal, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.

Condensed Tomato Soup (1 can, 10.75 oz): Contributes a rich tomato flavor and a hint of acidity, balancing the creaminess of the casserole.

Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.75 oz): Provides a creamy consistency and earthy undertones, adding layers of flavor.

Milk (1 cup): Thins the mixture slightly, allowing for a perfectly creamy texture.

Egg Noodles (2 cups, uncooked): The ideal pasta choice for this dish, as they cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. You can substitute with gluten-free noodles if needed.

Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a cheesy, comforting finish to the casserole. For extra flavor, consider a sharp cheddar.

Salt and Pepper (to taste): Seasoning essentials that bring out the best in the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking. This ensures the casserole will lift easily from the dish when serving.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.

Step 3: Combine the Sauces

Stir in the condensed tomato soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and milk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy sauce will be the heart of the casserole, coating every piece of pasta in rich, savory flavor.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

Pour the uncooked egg noodles directly into the skillet, stirring to ensure each piece is well coated with the sauce. The noodles will absorb the flavors as they bake, making every bite delicious.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Cheese

Carefully transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will melt to form a golden, bubbly layer during baking.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. The foil traps steam, helping the noodles cook evenly. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the cheese to melt completely and become slightly browned on the edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more satisfying.

Tips for a Seamless Cooking Experience

Use a Deep Skillet: This makes mixing all the ingredients easier without creating a mess.

Pre-Shred the Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a richer flavor.

Season at Each Step: Add a pinch of salt and pepper while browning the beef and again when mixing the sauce. It builds layers of flavor.

Try Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different twist.

Use Low-Sodium Soups: This gives you more control over the saltiness of the dish.