Amish Hearth Casserole

Amish Hearth Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table. Rooted in Amish home cooking traditions, this hearty casserole is simple, filling, and made with everyday ingredients. Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a cozy, no-frills meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday suppers.

This casserole reflects the Amish philosophy of cooking: wholesome, practical, and deeply satisfying.

What Is Amish Hearth Casserole?

Amish Hearth Casserole is a layered or mixed baked dish combining ground beef, egg noodles, cream-based soup, vegetables, and cheese. It’s similar to classic Midwestern casseroles, designed to feed a family generously while using affordable pantry staples.

The result is a warm, comforting meal with rich flavor and a creamy texture that appeals to all ages.

Ingredients

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups egg noodles, uncooked
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup sour cream
½ cup milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook egg noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well.

4. Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Add cooked beef, noodles, vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese to the sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.

6. Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Amish Hearth Casserole

Don’t overcook noodles—they’ll soften more in the oven
Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture
Make it ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking
Double the recipe for potlucks or large families

Variations

Chicken Version: Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken
Vegetarian: Omit meat and add mushrooms or extra vegetables
Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or Colby-Jack cheese
Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze unbaked or baked casserole for up to 3 months
Reheat in oven at 325°F until warmed through

Why You’ll Love Amish Hearth Casserole

Amish Hearth Casserole is simple, hearty, and comforting—the kind of meal that feels like home. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for busy families and anyone who loves classic comfort food.

Whether served on a chilly evening or shared at a gathering, this casserole delivers warmth, nourishment, and timeless appeal in every bite.