Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this beef and cream of chicken casserole will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Great for leftovers. Use ground beef and noodles.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Creamy and hearty. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves beef and noodles.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef, noodles, and soup are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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12 oz wide egg noodles (about 8 cups cooked)
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1 1/2 lb ground beef (80–85% lean)
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2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
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1 cup sour cream
Ingredient Notes
Egg noodles: Use wide egg noodles.
Ground beef: Use 80% to 85% lean ground beef.
Cream of chicken soup: Creates the creamy sauce base.
Sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the drained ground beef and cooked noodles to the bowl with the sauce. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Step 6: Transfer to the Dish
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
Step 7: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Beef and Cream of Chicken Casserole
This creamy, hearty casserole is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Extra Cheese: Add Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Different Soup: Use cream of mushroom or celery soup.
Make It with Different Noodles: Use fettuccine or pappardelle.
Make It with Vegetables: Add peas or mushrooms.
Make It with Cheese: Add shredded cheddar on top.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and soup.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Cook the noodles until al dente. They will finish cooking in the oven.
Drain the beef well. Excess grease can make the casserole greasy.
Do not overmix. This keeps the noodles from breaking.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of mushroom or celery soup can be used.
Can I use a different noodle?
Yes. Fettuccine or penne can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The noodles did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peas or mushrooms.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without sour cream?
Yes. Use Greek yogurt instead.
The Amish Kitchen Wisdom
Amish cooking is about feeding a family well with what is available. It is about dishes that are simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.
This beef and cream of chicken casserole embodies that wisdom. Ground beef is affordable. Noodles are filling. Canned soup is convenient. Nothing is wasted. Everything is stretched.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep noodles and soup in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 to 35 minutes
Rest Time: 5 to 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings