Amish Comfort Casserole
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Ingredients
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12 oz wide egg noodles
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
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1 cup sour cream
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup milk
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned.
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Drain excess fat.
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Add garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and basil.
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Stir well and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
3. Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
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In a large bowl, mix together sour cream, cream cheese, milk, and 1 cup shredded cheddar until smooth.
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Stir in the cooked noodles until coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer as follows:
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Half of the noodle mixture
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Half of the meat sauce
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Repeat layers
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Top evenly with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
5. Bake:
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
6. Serve:
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Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
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Use ground turkey or sausage for a flavor variation.
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Add a handful of frozen peas or corn to the meat mixture for extra heartiness.
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This casserole freezes beautifully — just assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking.
Would you like me to include a make-ahead and freezer version or a vegetarian variation next?
