🍅 Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole
🧡 Introduction
Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole is a warm, hearty, and deeply comforting dish inspired by the simple, wholesome cooking traditions of Amish kitchens. Known for their practical and nourishing meals, Amish cooks often use pantry staples, fresh ingredients, and slow cooking methods to create dishes that bring families together.
This casserole combines tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and soft pasta or noodles, all slowly cooked to perfection. The slow cooker allows the flavors to blend beautifully, creating a thick, savory, and satisfying meal that tastes like it has been simmering all day—because it has!
This dish is perfect for busy families, cozy winter nights, potlucks, or anytime you crave a filling and nostalgic comfort food.
📜 History of Amish Casseroles
Amish casseroles come from the Amish communities in Pennsylvania and the Midwest United States. Their cooking focuses on:
- Simple ingredients
- Affordable meals
- Feeding large families
- Slow cooking methods
Tomato and beef casseroles became popular because ground beef was affordable and tomatoes were easy to preserve or can.
These casseroles became a symbol of comfort, hospitality, and family love.
🧾 Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs (700 g) ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles or pasta
- 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (reduces acidity)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
👨🍳 Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat:
- Cook ground beef
- Add onion and garlic
- Cook until beef is browned
Drain excess grease.
This step builds flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In the slow cooker, add:
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Beef broth
- All seasonings
Mix well.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add to slow cooker:
- Cooked beef mixture
- Uncooked noodles
Stir everything together.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cook on:
- LOW for 6–7 hours
OR - HIGH for 3–4 hours
The noodles will become soft and absorb the delicious sauce.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional)
30 minutes before serving:
- Add cheese and sour cream
- Stir gently
This makes it creamy and rich.
🔥 Cooking Methods
Method 1: Traditional Slow Cooker (Best Method)
Slow cooking allows flavors to deepen and develop.
Method 2: Oven Method
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 45–60 minutes.
Method 3: Stovetop Method
Simmer in large pot for 30–40 minutes.
🍽 Formation and Texture
This casserole has:
- Tender beef
- Soft noodles
- Rich tomato flavor
- Thick, hearty texture
It is juicy, savory, and filling.
❤️ Why People Love This Recipe
People love this dish because it is:
- Easy to make
- Budget-friendly
- Family-friendly
- Comforting
- Very delicious
Children and adults both enjoy it.
It tastes even better the next day!
🌿 Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Fresh bread
- Green salad
- Steamed vegetables
Perfect for dinner or gatherings.
🏁 Conclusion
Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole is more than just a meal—it is comfort in a bowl. Its rich tomato flavor, tender beef, and slow-cooked goodness make it a timeless recipe loved by generations.
Whether you are feeding your family or guests, this dish will always bring smiles and full hearts.
If you want, I can also give you:
- 🧀 Creamiest version
- 🇮🇹 Italian version
- 💰 Cheapest version
- 🍽 Restaurant-style version