There’s something comforting about recipes that appear simple and yet satisfy on a deep level. And Amish cooking has always been correct. It depends on ingredients that are humble, methods that are practical and flavors that get people to gather around the table for seconds. This Oven Baked Amish French Onion Noodles recipe does just that!
At first sight it may appear an odd combination. French onion soup usually comes with crusty bread and melted cheese. Noodles are usually in casseroles or side dishes. But when you mix the rich, savory sweetness of caramelized onions with soft baked noodles, it makes for a cozy dish that is somehow both nostalgic and unexpectedly elegant.
This is a great recipe to serve as a main dish on a cold evening, or as a filling side dish to roast chicken, beef or pork. The noodles get a little crisp on top from the oven but are still creamy and full of flavor on the inside. And, best of all, the ingredient list is simple and budget friendly.
Why This Recipe Rocks
- Amish-style recipes are almost always about making the most of everyday ingredients, and this recipe is no exception to the rule. It’s the magic is the onions. They develop a deep sweetness while cooking that balances the savory broth and buttery noodles.
- By baking the noodles instead of boiling them separately, they soak up all that rich flavor. Each bite is seasoned with oniony goodness, not just coated in sauce.
- The dish also provides the textural contrast that makes casseroles so comforting: soft noodles, creamy broth, tender onions, and a lightly golden top.
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- This recipe doesn’t require anything fancy. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry or fridge.
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced.
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1-1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Amish French Onion Noodles in the Oven
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often. Allow them to soften and brown. This usually takes 20 to 25 minutes but it is worth every minute. The darker the color, the more flavor.
During the last few minutes of cooking add the garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles in a pot of salted boiling water until they’re just shy of al dente. Drain well.
Step 3: Mix it all up
Preheat oven to 375° (190°).
In a large mixing bowl, mix together cooked noodles, caramelized onions, beef broth, sour cream and half of Swiss cheese. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated.
Step 4: Cook
Pour mixture into a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining Swiss cheese over.
Discover and cook until the cheese melts and the top turns light golden and bubbly, about 25 to 30 minutes.
Let the casserole stand for approximately 5 minutes before serving. If you like, add some fresh parsley for a little color and freshness.
Best Flavor Tips
Take Your Time with the Onions:
The onions are what makes this dish special, so don’t rush them. Slow caramelization brings out the natural sweetness and creates the deep French onion flavor.
Use good broth
The noodles are in a delicious beef broth. Chicken broth can be used for a lighter flavor, but beef broth is what makes the classic French onion taste.
Do Not Overboil the Noodles
Boil noodles until just tender, as they will continue to cook in the oven. That helps them retain their texture after baking.
How to Serve
This casserole goes well with:
- Chicken, roasted.
- Pot Roast of Beef
- Grilled pork chops
- Green salad, simple
- Veggies (steamed).
- Hot Dinner Rolls
Or, if you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, you can enjoy it as a vegetarian-style comfort meal on its own.
Reason You’ll Make This Again
Some recipes wow, because they are complicated. Others are favorites because they’re comforting, practical, and always tasty. The latter is the Oven-Baked Amish French Onion Noodles.
It turns cheap ingredients into a dish that tastes rich and satisfying. It feeds a family easily, reheat well for leftovers and infuses the kind of cozy aroma to the kitchen that makes a house feel like home.
If you like french onion soup, baked casseroles or traditional Amish comfort food, this recipe is a must-have in your weekly dinner arsenal.
