This oven-baked Amish-style celery macaroni is the kind of practical casserole that turns a handful of pantry and refrigerator staples into a warm, modest supper with very little fuss. Using dry lumache pasta right in the baking dish keeps the method straightforward, while celery brings a fresh, old-fashioned flavor that fits the simple character of Amish home cooking.

Serve this creamy baked macaroni with buttered green beans, sliced tomatoes, or a crisp lettuce salad to balance its richness. It also works well alongside baked ham, roast chicken, or plain applesauce if you want to lean into a comforting Midwestern-style meal.

Oven Baked 5-Ingredient Amish Celery Macaroni

Servings: 6

Finished baked celery macaroni in a ceramic casserole dish
Finished baked celery macaroni in a ceramic casserole dish

Ingredients

2 cups dry lumache pasta

2 cups raw celery stalks, diced small
2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a medium ceramic casserole dish.

2. Spread the dry lumache pasta evenly in the casserole dish, then scatter the diced celery over the top.

3. Sprinkle the salt over the celery and pasta, then add the shredded cheddar evenly across the dish.

4. Pour the milk slowly over everything, making sure the pasta is as evenly moistened as possible without stirring.

5. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for 20 to 25 minutes, until the pasta is tender, most of the milk is absorbed, and the top is lightly golden.

6. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can settle and the pasta can finish absorbing the liquid.

Variations & Tips

Add onion: If you want a deeper savory flavor, add 1/4 cup very finely diced onion along with the celery. Keep the pieces small so they soften fully during baking.

Use a different cheese: Colby, mild cheddar, or Monterey Jack all melt nicely here. Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but a milder cheese makes the casserole especially kid-friendly.

Watch the liquid level: Because oven-baked pasta can vary by brand and shape, check the casserole when you uncover it. If it looks dry before the pasta is tender, add a small splash of extra milk around the edges.

Let it rest: This is one of those casseroles that improves after a brief stand on the counter. Resting helps the sauce thicken and makes the servings neater.