Amish Yum-a-Setta

Amish Yum-a-Setta Recipe - Hamburger and Egg Noodle Casserole

Region / culture: Amish | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Amish Yum-a-Setta is a hearty, comforting casserole dish that combines simple ingredients into a delicious meal. This traditional Amish recipe is known for its ease of preparation and satisfying taste, making it a favorite among families for generations. The dish features layers of ground beef, noodles, and cheese, all baked to perfection. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it a staple in many households.

History

The origins of Amish Yum-a-Setta can be traced back to the Amish and Mennonite communities in the United States. These communities are known for their simple, wholesome cooking that emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the classic dish. It embodies the spirit of communal dining and sharing, characteristics that are central to Amish and Mennonite cultures.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of hamburger
salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp of brown sugar
0.25 cup of chopped onion
1 can of tomato soup
1 can of cream of chicken soup
1 package of egg noodles
1 package of processed cheese

How to prepare

In a skillet, brown the hamburger with salt, pepper, brown sugar, and onion.
Add tomato soup to the skillet.
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
Drain the cooked noodles.
Add cream of chicken soup to the skillet.
In a casserole dish, layer the hamburger mixture and noodle mixture with processed cheese.
Bake the casserole for 30 minutes.

Variations

There are many ways to adapt the Amish Yum-a-Setta recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey instead of hamburger and whole wheat noodles instead of regular egg noodles. Vegetarians can substitute the meat with a plant-based protein like lentils or a meat substitute. Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can increase the dish's nutritional value and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Amish Yum-a-Setta, consider the following tips:

- Brown the hamburger over medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.

- Season the meat mixture well with salt, pepper, and brown sugar to enhance the flavors.

- Cook the egg noodles until they are just al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.

- Layer the ingredients evenly in the casserole dish to ensure every bite has a good mix of flavors and textures.

- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.

Serving Suggestions

Amish Yum-a-Setta is best served hot, straight from the oven. It can be accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or a crusty roll.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques involved in making Amish Yum-a-Setta include browning meat, boiling pasta, and baking. Each step is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in the final dish. Browning the meat adds depth of flavor, while boiling the pasta correctly ensures it doesn't become too soft during baking. Baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt into a delicious topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing an ingredient or want to customize the recipe, there are several substitutions you can make. For the tomato soup, tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can be used as alternatives. Any type of creamy soup can replace the cream of chicken soup, such as cream of mushroom. If processed cheese isn't available, cheddar or another melting cheese can be used instead.

Make Ahead Tips

Amish Yum-a-Setta is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're starting from cold.

Presentation Ideas

To make the dish more visually appealing, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. Serving the casserole in a colorful dish can also enhance its appearance. For individual servings, consider using ramekins or small baking dishes for a personalized touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Amish Yum-a-Setta pairs well with light, refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade. For wine enthusiasts, a medium-bodied red wine such as Merlot or a white wine like Chardonnay can complement the flavors of the casserole. Beer lovers might enjoy a lager or pilsner as a refreshing counterpart to the rich dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Amish Yum-a-Setta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Amish Yum-a-Setta contains approximately 450 calories. This makes it a relatively high-calorie dish, suitable for a main meal. The calories come from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, providing a balanced source of energy.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Amish Yum-a-Setta contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the egg noodles and the tomato soup. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so this dish can be a good source of fuel for the body, especially when served as part of a balanced meal.

Fats

This recipe contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the hamburger and processed cheese. While fats are an essential part of the diet, it's important to consume them in moderation. Opting for leaner cuts of beef or reduced-fat cheese can help lower the fat content if desired.

Proteins

Amish Yum-a-Setta is a protein-rich dish, providing approximately 25 grams of protein per serving. The protein comes mainly from the hamburger and the cheese, making this casserole a filling and nutritious option for meal times.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole dish provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A from the tomato soup, calcium and phosphorus from the cheese, and iron and zinc from the hamburger. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and supporting bodily functions.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the egg noodles), dairy (from the cheese), and soy (from the processed ingredients like tomato soup). Individuals with food allergies or sensitivities should consider these factors when preparing or consuming this dish.

Summary

Overall, Amish Yum-a-Setta is a nutritious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also offers various vitamins and minerals essential for health. However, it is relatively high in calories and contains common allergens, so it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Amish Yum-a-Setta is a classic comfort food dish that combines simple ingredients into a delicious and satisfying meal. With its rich history and versatility, it's a recipe that can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary need. Whether you're looking for a hearty main course for a family dinner or a make-ahead option for busy nights, this casserole is sure to please.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Amish Yum-a-Setta. It was a cold and dreary winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the floor. Curious, I picked it up and saw the handwritten recipe for Amish Yum-a-Setta.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the name alone intrigued me. I could almost taste the warm, comforting flavors just from reading the ingredients. Ground beef, noodles, tomato sauce, and creamy cheese - it sounded like the perfect combination of flavors and textures. I knew I had to try it.

I traced the recipe back to my grandmother's notes, where she had written that she learned it from a dear Amish friend many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own. I was thrilled at the thought of carrying on this tradition and making it my own.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, taking care to follow the instructions exactly as written. As the dish baked in the oven, the scent of bubbling cheese and savory meat filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in.

The first bite was pure bliss. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a rich and hearty dish that warmed me from the inside out. The creamy cheese melted in my mouth, while the tender noodles and seasoned beef added a satisfying depth of flavor. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own recipe collection.

Over the years, I have made Amish Yum-a-Setta countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add extra veggies for a pop of color and nutrition, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version. No matter how I make it, the dish always brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia to the table.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of this delicious Amish dish to all who try it. Each time I make it, I think of my grandmother and her love for cooking, and how she passed down this recipe to me with such care and pride. It's a dish that holds a special place in my heart, connecting me to my roots and the traditions of generations past.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Amish Yum-a-Setta, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures of good food and cherished memories. Cooking has always been a way for me to express my love and creativity, and this recipe is a perfect example of that. I may not be Amish myself, but in that moment, as I savor each bite of this comforting dish, I feel a deep connection to a tradition that transcends time and place. And for that, I am truly grateful.