This Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole feels like it came straight from a church supper table in Amish country—simple, hearty, and made to feed a hungry family with minimal fuss.
It’s the kind of recipe built on practicality and comfort. Raw ground beef goes straight into the slow cooker, layered with pantry staples and a creamy tomato base that slowly transforms into a rich, satisfying casserole. No browning, no complicated steps—just real, old-fashioned cooking.
It’s easy to imagine this dish simmering away during harvest season, when time was short but a filling, dependable meal was essential. Today, it’s just as perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm, nostalgic, and incredibly easy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 simple ingredients
- No pre-cooking required
- True dump-and-go slow cooker meal
- Hearty, filling, and family-friendly
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed tomato soup
- 2 cups uncooked wide egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
How to Make Slow Cooker Amish Tomato Beef Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease a 5–6 quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Beef
Spread the raw ground beef evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker. Gently break it apart into an even layer. (No need to brown it first.)
3. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the condensed tomato soup with 1 cup of water until smooth. This helps the sauce distribute evenly while cooking.
4. Add the Sauce
Pour the tomato soup mixture over the beef, making sure it fully covers the meat.
5. Add the Noodles
Sprinkle the uncooked egg noodles evenly over the top. Gently press them down so they settle slightly into the sauce.
6. Add Creamy Layer
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Dollop this mixture over the noodles and spread lightly—it doesn’t need to be perfect.
7. Cook
Cover and cook:
- LOW: 4–5 hours
- HIGH: 2–3 hours
Cook until the beef is fully done, noodles are tender, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
8. Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and let sit for about 10 minutes until melted.
9. Serve
Gently stir from the edges toward the center to slightly combine layers. Serve hot straight from the slow cooker.
Cooking Method Explained
This recipe uses a layered slow cooker method, where ingredients cook together without pre-browning. As it cooks, the tomato mixture seeps through the beef and noodles, creating a rich, cohesive casserole with minimal effort.
Texture & Flavor
- Tender egg noodles
- Rich, tomato-based creamy sauce
- Juicy, flavorful ground beef
- Melted cheesy topping
- Comforting, hearty consistency
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with:
- Buttered bread or dinner rolls
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed green beans or corn
- Pickles for a tangy contrast
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t lift the lid often—this helps noodles cook evenly
- Use lean beef to avoid excess grease
- Press noodles slightly into sauce so they soften properly
- Let it rest a few minutes before serving for best texture
Variations
- Add diced onions or garlic for extra flavor
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Stir in frozen vegetables like peas or corn
- Swap cheddar for Colby Jack or mozzarella
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
- Reheat in microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or milk
- Freezes well for up to 2 months
For the Lovers of Old-Fashioned Comfort Food
This recipe is perfect for:
- Fans of Amish-style cooking
- Slow cooker meal lovers
- Busy families
- Budget-friendly cooking
- Cozy, nostalgic dinners
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole proves that the best meals don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you get a dish that’s rich, filling, and deeply comforting.