Description
A classic and comforting Amish Country Casserole featuring tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, topped with melted cheese. This hearty casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika or parsley for garnish
Meat & Dairy
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup cream or milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 tbsp butter
Sauces
- 2 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook Egg Noodles: Prepare the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly to prevent extra moisture in the casserole.
- Brown Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce and cream or milk with the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine Noodles and Beef Mixture: Remove the pan from heat and fold the drained noodles into the beef and sauce mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish and pour in the noodle and beef mixture, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. You may also add a sprinkle of paprika or parsley if desired for color and extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted and begun to brown slightly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for a satisfying family meal.
Notes
- Add vegetables such as peas or corn to the mixture before baking to boost nutrition and add color.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- For a lighter option, use milk instead of cream or reduced-fat cheese.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
