The Cheesy Amish Beef Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the hearty flavors of beef with the creamy richness of cheese, all enveloped in a delightful pasta bake. This dish draws inspiration from the Amish community's emphasis on simple, wholesome ingredients and their love for hearty, family-style meals. It's perfect for those who seek a satisfying and easy-to-make dinner that brings warmth to the table. The casserole's appeal lies in its ability to be both a crowd-pleaser and a nostalgic nod to traditional Midwestern cooking.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A side of steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts would add a nice touch of freshness and color. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce, and perhaps a glass of your favorite red wine to complement the savory flavors.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese. Mix well.

Layer half of the cooked noodles in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the sour cream and cottage cheese mixture over the noodles.

Top with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and cheddar cheese.

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach can introduce more vegetables into the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

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