Old-Fashioned Amish Beef and Potato Casserole

 

Old-Fashioned Amish Beef and Potato Casserole

 

Don’t Lose This Comfort Food Classic

There’s something deeply comforting about old-fashioned Amish cooking. Simple ingredients, slow baking, and rich homemade flavors come together to create meals that warm both the body and the soul. This Old-Fashioned Amish Beef and Potato Casserole is one of those timeless dishes—hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners, cold evenings, or when you want real comfort food made from scratch.

This casserole layers tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese into a satisfying meal that tastes even better the next day. No fancy techniques, no complicated steps—just honest, traditional cooking the Amish way.

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Very filling and budget-friendly
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Great for family dinners or gatherings
• Rich, creamy, and full of nostalgic flavor

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1½ to 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1½ pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Colby-Jack)

Creamy Sauce

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup sour cream

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup corn or peas
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and slice them very thin—about ⅛ inch thick. Thin slices are important so they cook evenly and become tender in the oven. Place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Drain excess fat, then season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Stir well and remove from heat.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Cream of mushroom soup
• Milk
• Sour cream

Mix until smooth and creamy. This sauce is what gives the casserole its signature Amish-style richness.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish.

Layer the casserole as follows:

1. A layer of sliced potatoes
2. A layer of seasoned ground beef
3. A drizzle of creamy sauce
4. A sprinkle of shredded cheese

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.

5. Bake Slowly for Best Flavor

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Results

• Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
• Use whole milk for a richer texture
• Let it rest before serving for clean slices
• Tastes even better the next day

Variations You Can Try

• Cheese Lovers: Add mozzarella or Swiss cheese
• Extra Creamy: Add 2 tablespoons butter to the sauce
• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots or green beans
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Oven at 350°F or microwave until hot

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Amish Beef and Potato Casserole is proof that simple food can be incredibly satisfying. Creamy, hearty, and full of traditional flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you pass down and make again and again.