Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole: A Cozy Five-Ingredient Family Supper
This Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole brings the kind of comfort often associated with church suppers and family gatherings.
It is built on simple pantry staples and requires only a few minutes of preparation before the slow cooker takes over.
With just five core ingredients, the dish transforms into a hearty, filling meal that feels both practical and nostalgic.
A Simple, Thrifty Classic
Recipes like this are rooted in straightforward cooking traditions.
They rely on accessible ingredients, minimal preparation, and slow, steady heat to create a satisfying result.
The combination of ground beef, tomato soup, egg noodles, sour cream, and cheddar cheese produces a rich and creamy casserole with very little effort.
Everything cooks together in one pot, making it an efficient option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 pounds lean ground beef
2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
Preparing the Slow Cooker
Begin by lightly greasing a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker crock.
A small amount of butter or cooking spray helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later.
This quick step ensures the casserole releases cleanly once it is fully cooked.
Layering the Ground Beef
Spread the raw ground beef evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker.
Break it apart gently using your fingers or the back of a spoon so it forms an even layer.
The beef does not need to be browned beforehand.
It will cook thoroughly in the slow cooker while absorbing flavor from the surrounding ingredients.
Creating the Tomato Base
In a separate bowl, whisk the condensed tomato soup with 1 cup of water.
Mix until smooth so the sauce has a slightly thinner consistency.
This allows it to seep evenly through the beef and noodles as everything cooks.
Pour the tomato mixture directly over the ground beef, making sure the layer is fully covered.
The tomato base becomes the foundation of the casserole’s flavor.
Adding the Noodles
Sprinkle the uncooked wide egg noodles evenly over the tomato-covered beef.
Press them down gently with the back of a spoon so they settle slightly into the sauce.
As the casserole cooks, the noodles soften and absorb the surrounding liquid.
This creates a tender texture while helping bind the layers together.
Incorporating the Creamy Layer
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
Dollop spoonfuls of this mixture across the noodle layer.
Spread it loosely into an uneven layer.
It does not need to be perfectly smooth, as it will melt and settle during cooking.
This step adds richness and a subtle tang that balances the tomato base.
Slow Cooking to Perfection
Place the lid securely on the slow cooker.
Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours.
The casserole is ready when the ground beef is fully cooked, the noodles are tender, and the edges are bubbling gently.
Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently, as consistent heat helps the noodles cook evenly.
During this time, the layers soften and meld together into a cohesive dish.
Finishing With Melted Cheese
Once the casserole has finished cooking, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Cover again and allow it to sit on LOW or WARM for about 10 minutes.
This final step melts the cheese into a smooth, golden layer.
The melted cheddar adds a finishing touch that enhances both flavor and texture.
Serving the Casserole
Before serving, gently stir from the edges toward the center.
This lightly blends the layers without completely breaking them apart.
Taste and season with salt and black pepper if desired.
Serve hot directly from the slow cooker for a warm and comforting meal.
A Reliable Weeknight Option
This recipe stands out for its simplicity.
There is no need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Everything goes into the slow cooker in layers, allowing the flavors to develop naturally.
The result is a filling casserole with a creamy, tomato-rich base and tender noodles throughout.
Its straightforward preparation makes it especially useful during busy weeks.
With minimal hands-on time, it provides a dependable dinner solution.
Comfort in Every Bite
The combination of ground beef and tomato soup creates a familiar, savory flavor.
The sour cream softens the acidity of the tomatoes while adding creaminess.
The cheddar cheese ties everything together with a mild, comforting finish.
Each spoonful delivers a balanced mix of protein, pasta, and sauce.
Served straight from the crock, it brings a sense of warmth to the table.
Practical Cooking at Its Best
Dishes like this highlight the value of efficient, no-fuss cooking.
By layering ingredients and letting the slow cooker handle the rest, dinner comes together with ease.
The five ingredients work harmoniously, proving that satisfying meals do not require complexity.
This Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole offers a dependable, hearty option that can quickly become part of a regular meal rotation.
With its straightforward steps and rich flavor, it delivers comfort and practicality in one simple dish.