Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any table. With its creamy texture, savory ground beef, and flavorful tomato sauce, this casserole is perfect for families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal on a budget. It’s an easy recipe that combines simple ingredients to create a delicious feast that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly filling and affordable. The ingredients are simple and usually found in most kitchens, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Additionally, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. It combines protein, carbs, and fats, giving you a well-rounded meal that pleases the whole family.
How to Make Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
- 1 1⁄2 pounds ground beef
- 2 cans (30 ounces) tomato sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, ground beef, tomato sauce, cream cheese, sour cream, and minced garlic.
- Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Serve Poor Man’s Husband Casserole hot from the oven. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. It also goes well with steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
How to Store Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Tips to Make Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- If you want a cheesy topping, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before baking.
Variation
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole. Additionally, you could use different types of pasta if you don’t have egg noodles on hand.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sauce instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use marinara sauce, spaghetti sauce, or even a pizza sauce for a different flavor.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, assemble it, and keep it in the refrigerator a day before baking. Just cover it with foil before refrigerating.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or any vegetables of your choice to make it vegetarian-friendly.
