Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, then Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is your answer. This dish comes together with pantry staples you likely already have on hand. While it might not win any beauty contests, its taste is undeniably addictive.
With the current state of the economy, finding ways to stretch your food budget is essential, and this casserole is a fantastic way to do just that. It’s perfect for meal prepping when you’re cooking for one or feeding a large family. The hearty ingredients will satisfy those hunger pangs and keep you feeling full. Just a heads up—this might not be the best meal to eat right before a big event, as it tends to induce sleepiness!
Think of it as a simpler, more economical version of lasagna, with layers of noodles, ground beef, sauce, and seasonings. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is affordable, simple to make, and loved by all ages. It’s a great comfort food that doesn’t require much time or effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, the ingredients are easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs. Ground beef
- 2 Cans tomato sauce (15 oz. each)
- 8 oz. Cream cheese
- 8 oz. Sour cream
- 8 oz. Egg noodles
- 1 ½ C. Cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp. Minced garlic
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp. Sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat on the stove, sauté the ground beef until it is completely browned. Drain any extra grease.
- Add the Italian seasoning and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for 30 seconds longer.
- Pour the tomato sauce and sugar into the skillet with the meat, add salt and pepper to taste, and sauté for 3-5 minutes longer.
- Mix together the sour cream and the cream cheese in a bowl.
- Cook the egg noodles until done to your liking and drain completely.
- Place ½ of the egg noodles in an even layer in the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Top the noodles with half of the cream cheese mixture and then half of the meat mixture.
- Repeat with another layer of noodles, cream cheese mixture, and then ground beef on top.
- Sprinkle the cheese on the top of the casserole and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Tips for Success
Be sure to drain the ground beef well to avoid a greasy casserole. When layering, ensure the cream cheese mixture is spread evenly for the best flavor distribution. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the beef and cheese. Adjust portions to fit your dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Portion out servings and freeze them in airtight containers for up to three months.
How can I make this recipe healthier? Use lean ground beef, whole wheat noodles, and low-fat cheese and cream products to lighten up the dish.
Conclusion
Give this Poor Man’s Husband Casserole a try and experience its comforting flavors for yourself. Whether you’re cooking for one or for many, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so feel free to share your experiences and any personal twists you added to the recipe!
