If you’ve ever longed for a dish that captures that perfect blend of hearty comfort and family tradition, it doesn’t get better than the Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake). Every forkful is pure nostalgia, bursting with savory beef, tender noodles, creamy sauce, and bubbling cheddar cheese. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving a satisfying make-ahead meal, this classic casserole is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again — a true taste of home and happiness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) lies in the simplicity and honesty of its ingredients. Each one serves an important role, from adding depth and richness to providing just the right texture and color that makes this casserole irresistibly homey.
- Ground beef: Full of flavor, the classic foundation for the hearty filling that everyone loves.
- Onion (chopped): Adds a gentle sweetness and plenty of aromatic depth to the casserole.
- Garlic (minced): Essential for bringing out those savory undertones and a little kick.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Lends creaminess and earthiness, tying all the flavors together.
- Cream of chicken soup: Another layer of creamy comfort, adding body and subtle poultry flavor.
- Milk: Makes the sauce extra smooth and luscious throughout the bake.
- Worcestershire sauce: A dash of tang that enhances the savoriness of the beef.
- Dried thyme: Brings a gentle herbal note that brightens up the casserole.
- Black pepper: For a just-right touch of warmth and balance.
- Egg noodles: The comforting base—tender, slightly chewy, and perfect for soaking up all that sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, bubbly, and golden on top, with gooey pockets throughout.
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful finish that makes the dish pop.
How to Make Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake)
Step 1: Brown the Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the beef loses all its pink color and the onion looks translucent. Drain away any excess fat, then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just one more minute. This combination unlocks so much savory flavor that will permeate the entire casserole.
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and black pepper. This mixture makes the magic happen! Once it’s smooth, add in the cooked beef, onion, and garlic. Stir well so every bite will have a wonderful harmony of beefy, creamy goodness.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles
While the beef mixture is coming together, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Aim for al dente—just firm enough to hold up in the bake. Drain the noodles thoroughly so your casserole isn’t too watery, then gently fold them into the beef and sauce mixture.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine
Now for the cheesy magic! Fold in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This ensures that every forkful of your Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) has those irresistible gooey bits of cheddar tucked inside.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in your beef, noodle, and cheese mixture, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar over the top for a glorious golden finish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes or until bubbling and beautifully browned.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is hot and bubbly, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness—totally optional, but highly recommended for that finishing touch!
How to Serve Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake)
Garnishes
While the casserole is divine on its own, a little sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley—or even chives—adds both color and a touch of brightness. For a cozy dinner party, try a light dusting of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper right before serving to make your Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, buttery corn, or simple steamed vegetables like green beans or carrots. For ultimate comfort, serve it alongside warm dinner rolls or a slice of crusty bread to mop up any creamy sauce left in your bowl!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeding a crowd, scoop the Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) into individual ramekins for a fun, personalized touch. Or, try topping with crunchy fried onions or crushed crackers before baking uncovered for the last ten minutes—a delicious throwback to classic comfort food traditions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store beautifully! Just let the casserole cool a bit, then transfer to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. Your Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) will stay fresh for up to 4 days, and the flavors deepen even more overnight.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole all the way through but don’t bake it yet (leave off the parsley garnish). Tightly wrap with foil and plastic, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed—just add an extra 10–15 minutes of baking time if it’s still a bit chilly in the center.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave (loosely covered) until piping hot, or pop a whole pan back into a 350°F oven. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning, and bake until the casserole is warmed through and bubbly again.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are the traditional choice for Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake), short-cut pastas like rotini or penne work really well too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and aim for al dente texture.
How can I make this casserole a little healthier?
Substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef, use reduced-fat soups and cheese, and add extra vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach. It’s easy to sneak in more nutrition without sacrificing taste!
What’s the best way to avoid a watery casserole?
Make sure to drain both your beef and your cooked noodles thoroughly. Also, don’t skip the last uncovered bake which helps excess liquid evaporate and gives the top a golden finish.
Can I prepare Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking to take the chill off—and then bake as usual!
Does this casserole freeze well after baking?
It does! Allow the baked casserole to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly before freezing. It makes terrific ready-to-go lunches and dinners for busy days down the road.
Final Thoughts
If you love the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug, you absolutely have to try Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake)! Whether you’re serving it for a Sunday family supper or prepping it for an easy weeknight meal, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfaction every time. Enjoy sharing this slice of simple, homestyle comfort with the people you love most.
Print
Amish Country Casserole (Hearty Homestyle Beef and Noodle Bake) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Amish Country Casserole is a comforting and hearty homestyle dish featuring beef, noodles, and a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a classic bake that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook beef mixture: Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Prepare sauce: In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and pepper. Mix in beef mixture.
- Cook noodles: Cook egg noodles until al dente; combine with beef mixture and 1 ½ cups of cheddar.
- Assemble and bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, top with remaining cheese, cover with foil, and bake. Uncover and bake until golden.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Ground turkey or pork can be used instead of beef.
- For added veggies, mix in a cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables.
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