A cozy, budget-friendly, old-fashioned casserole famous in Amish and Mennonite communities. It’s simple, hearty, and comforting—perfect for feeding a crowd. Tender egg noodles are coated in a creamy tomato-sauce mixture with ground beef, baked to bubbly perfection.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Main Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 cup milk

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• ½ tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or colby-jack cheese (optional but popular)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the egg noodles and cook until just tender (slightly under al dente).

3. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the beef

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat.

2. Break up the meat as it cooks until browned and no longer pink.

3. Drain excess grease.

4. Add garlic (if using) and cook 30 seconds.

3. Make the sauce

1. In the same skillet, add:

   • Cream of mushroom soup

   • Cream of chicken soup

   • Tomato sauce

   • Milk

   • Worcestershire sauce

   • Paprika, salt, and pepper

2. Stir until smooth and warmed through.

4. Assemble

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.

3. Combine noodles and sauce mixture in a large bowl (or directly in the dish).

4. Pour into dish and smooth out.

5. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

• If adding cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes.

6. Serve

Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Size

• Serves: 6–8

• Serving size: approx. 1½ cups per person

Estimated Nutrition per Serving (based on 8 servings)

Values vary depending on brand and optional cheese.

Recipe Notes

• The classic Amish version typically doesn’t include cheese, but many modern variations do.

• The casserole is meant to be mild, creamy, and filling — not heavily seasoned.

• This is an excellent “pantry meal” since the ingredients are shelf-stable.

Tips for Best Results

✔ Don’t overcook the noodles

They continue to soften in the oven.

✔ Add vegetables if you want more nutrition

Good additions include peas, corn, carrots, or mushrooms.

✔ Substitute the meat

Try ground turkey, sausage, or plant-based crumbles.

✔ Make it ahead

Assemble the casserole, refrigerate up to 24 hrs, then bake +10 minutes.

✔ Freezes well

Freeze unbaked or baked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Benefits of Amish Country Casserole

• Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive pantry staples.

• Family-friendly: Mild flavor that kids and adults enjoy.

• Hearty & filling: High in protein and carbs for energy.

• Make-ahead friendly: Great for meal prep or potlucks.

• Customizable: Easy to adapt with veggies or different meats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use different noodles?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or macaroni all work. Just cook until barely tender.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free condensed soups and plant milk. It will still come out creamy.

3. Can I reduce sodium?

Yes:

• Use low-sodium soups

• Skip added salt

• Use no-salt tomato sauce

4. What can I serve it with?

• Green salad

• Steamed broccoli

• Buttery peas

• Dinner rolls

5. Is this a traditional Amish dish?

It’s widely known in Amish and Mennonite community cookbooks, though modern versions vary by region and family.

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