Amish Hamburger Casserole
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, and this Amish Hamburger Casserole is no exception. This dish brings together the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and rich cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner for busy women craving something wholesome yet simple. The use of simple pantry ingredients ensures that it’s easy to pull together, while the fragrant blend of garlic, onions, and herbs adds depth to every bite. This casserole feels like a cozy, home-cooked hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home.
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Lean ground beef works well here, providing a hearty base for the casserole. Opt for 85% lean for a good balance between flavor and fat.
- Onion (1, diced): Onions add sweetness and depth to the dish. They soften beautifully when sautéed with the beef, infusing the casserole with flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic gives the casserole a wonderful aromatic punch. Be sure not to overcook it, so it retains its flavor.
- Egg Noodles (2 cups): These broad noodles soak up the creamy sauce, providing a tender, satisfying texture. You can substitute with gluten-free noodles if needed.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This classic casserole ingredient adds creaminess and a savory mushroom flavor that ties everything together. If you prefer homemade, you can easily whip up a quick cream of mushroom sauce.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds a bit of tanginess and juiciness to balance the richness of the soup and cheese. Be sure to drain them slightly so the casserole doesn’t become too watery.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Shredded cheddar melts into a gooey topping that complements the rest of the dish. Opt for sharp cheddar to get that tangy, rich flavor.
- Dried Basil & Oregano (½ tsp each): These herbs provide a subtle earthy note, adding depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt & Pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden top.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming too greasy.
Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant. This helps build a flavor base for the casserole.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles
While the beef mixture is cooking, boil a pot of salted water and cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Casserole Mixture
Stir the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Stir well to combine everything and allow it to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles to the beef mixture, tossing gently to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish (9×13-inch works well).
Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your comforting, cheesy casserole!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Let the casserole cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze this casserole! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F until warmed through.
- Reheating: To reheat individual servings, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or place the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a lighter option.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day.
4. How can I make this casserole gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free noodles and check that the soup and seasonings are gluten-free.
5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
6. Is there a way to make this casserole less rich? Use a low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduce the amount of cheese.
7. How long can I store leftovers? The casserole will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
8. Can I substitute the egg noodles with another pasta? Yes, rotini, penne, or any other sturdy pasta works well.
9. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes, but you may need to cook them down a bit to reduce moisture.
10. Can I add a crunchy topping? For added texture, top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
11. Can I make this dairy-free? You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free cheese.
12. Can I add more spices? Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste; chili flakes can add a nice kick.
13. Should I cover the casserole while baking? No, bake it uncovered so the cheese can melt and become golden.
14. Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply use a larger dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
15. How do I avoid soggy noodles? Cook the noodles al dente and drain them well before adding to the casserole.
16. Can I make my own cream of mushroom soup? Yes, you can make a homemade version using mushrooms, broth, milk, and flour.
17. Can I use leftover cooked pasta? Yes, as long as it’s not overcooked.
18. What sides go well with this dish? A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent sides.
19. Can I reheat this in the oven? Yes, reheat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
20. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with a non-dairy option? Yes, there are many non-dairy cheese options available that work well in casseroles.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Drain the diced tomatoes to avoid excess moisture.
- Brown the beef thoroughly for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for the best aroma.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Layer cheese inside for extra gooeyness.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Don’t overcook the noodles to prevent sogginess.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami depth.
- Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste.
- Grate your own cheese—it melts better.
- Mix in cream cheese for added creaminess.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley for brightness.
- Add a dollop of sour cream on the side for tang.
- Use high-quality beef for richer flavor.
- Add mushrooms for an earthy addition.
- Season in layers as you cook for balanced flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the creaminess.
- Bake in a preheated oven for even cooking.
- Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a crispy top.
This Amish Hamburger Casserole is perfect for sharing with loved ones. With these tips and secrets, you’ll have a perfectly comforting and delicious meal every time
