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Poor Man Husband Casserole

Poor Man Husband Casserole

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Poor Man Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, comforting dish that layers hearty beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta into a warm and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a filling dinner that pleases the whole family. With simple ingredients and a nostalgic flavor, this casserole feels like a hug on a plate.

ingredients

Poor Man Husband Casserole this Recipe
Poor Man Husband Casserole 10 Poor Man Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, comforting dish that layers hearty beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta into a warm and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a filling dinner that pleases the whole family. With simple ingredients and a nostalgic flavor, this casserole feels like a hug on a plate.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicsalt and peppertomato sauceItalian seasoningcream cheesesour creamwide egg noodlesshredded cheddar cheese

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Add the tomato sauce to the skillet and simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.

Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

Layer the casserole: Spread half the noodles in the baking dish, top with the cream cheese mixture, then the remaining noodles, and finally the meat sauce.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and timing

Poor Man Husband Casserole
Poor Man Husband Casserole 11 Poor Man Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, comforting dish that layers hearty beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta into a warm and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a filling dinner that pleases the whole family. With simple ingredients and a nostalgic flavor, this casserole feels like a hug on a plate.

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.

Top with mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a gooey twist.

Swap egg noodles with rotini or penne pasta if preferred.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.Casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy and cheesy layers are usually a hit with kids.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese and sour cream work fine if you’re looking to lighten it up.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure the noodles are not overcooked before baking and don’t skimp on sauce.

Can I add hot sauce or spices?

Definitely! A pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce can add some heat.

Conclusion

Poor Man Husband Casserole proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. With its creamy, cheesy goodness layered over pasta and meat, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick dinner fix, this casserole is a dependable and delicious choice.

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Poor Man Husband Casserole

Poor Man Husband Casserole

  • Author: slsrecipes
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat
Print Recipe

Description

A hearty, budget-friendly casserole layered with creamy cheese sauce, ground beef, egg noodles and melty cheddar—simple to make and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1½ lb ground beef
  • 30 oz tomato sauce (two 15 oz cans)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz sour cream
  • 2 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
  2. Spray a 9×13″ baking dish with cooking spray.
  3. Cook egg noodles per package; drain and rinse.
  4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble beef until no longer pink; drain.
  5. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper; stir to combine.
  6. Stir in sugar, then pour in tomato sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. In a bowl, combine sour cream and softened cream cheese.
  8. Layer half the noodles in the prepared dish.
  9. Spread half the cream cheese–sour cream mixture over noodles.
  10. Top with half the meat sauce.
  11. Repeat layers: noodles, cream mixture, meat sauce.
  12. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
  13. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown.
  14. Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Variations: swap in other cheeses, add veggies (peas, bell peppers), or change the pasta.
  • Freezes well—freeze baked or unbaked for up to 5 months; thaw/reheat thoroughly.
  • Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 5–7 days.
  • Make-ahead tip: assemble, refrigerate, and add 10–15 minutes extra bake time if baking cold.