Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of home cooking right to your table. This recipe combines ground beef, tomatoes, macaroni, and cheese, creating a hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Why Make This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, letting you enjoy the aromas of cooking without constant supervision. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, home-cooked meal. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward directions, anyone can whip this up in no time!
How to Make Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until macaroni is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and allow to melt before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole
Serve this casserole hot, directly from the slow cooker. It pairs well with a simple garden salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole
To store leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep the casserole in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole
- You can use lean ground beef or substitute it with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Variation
You can customize this casserole by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. Additionally, swapping out the elbow macaroni for whole grain or gluten-free pasta can cater to specific dietary needs.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this casserole in a regular pot on the stove. Just combine all the ingredients in the pot and simmer on low heat until the macaroni is tender.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the macaroni is tender and the flavors are well combined. This usually takes about 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker.
Can I add more protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add cooked sausage or even beans for added protein and variety. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Slow Cooker Amish Country Tomato Beef Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until macaroni is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and allow to melt before serving.
