Amish Country Pasta Casserole

Discover the Comfort of Amish Country Pasta Casserole

We all love a dinner that’s not only easy to make but also irresistibly delicious. That’s exactly why this Amish Country Pasta Casserole has become a beloved staple in our kitchen. While we might not know the exact origins of this comforting dish, we’re certain you’ll adore it just as much as we do. Imagine a creamy, cheesy, beefy pasta bake that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Our family can’t get enough of it, and we believe yours will feel the same!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and a generous splash of half-and-half creates a creamy base that envelops the pasta and beef perfectly. While you can definitely make the soups from scratch for a homemade touch, using store-bought ones keeps the preparation quick and hassle-free. It’s a weeknight wonder that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large pan or skillet for cooking beef
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 oz. egg noodles
• 1 (10.75 oz.) can tomato soup
• 1 (10.75 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions, or until al dente.
2. In a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for 10-12 minutes until browned. Drain the fat, then add the onion and garlic. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup. Stir in the half-and-half and Worcestershire sauce, then season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine the cooked noodles and the beef mixture with the soup mixture, stirring everything together to ensure it’s well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the grated parmesan over the top.
6. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta is cooked just to al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a different flavor profile, try adding other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you’re a cheese lover, consider adding a layer of mozzarella on top for extra gooeyness.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is a hearty meal that provides a good balance of protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the noodles, with added richness from the cheese and soups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Simply store in an airtight container for up to three months.
• What can I serve with this casserole? A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes to balance the meal.

Conclusion

We hope you’ll give this Amish Country Pasta Casserole a try and find it as delightful as we do. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe, so please feel free to share your thoughts and any variations you tried. Enjoy!