Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty and budget-friendly dish that brings together simple ingredients for a comforting, delicious meal. With layers of ground beef, tender pasta, creamy cheese, and rich tomato sauce, this casserole is perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank. It’s an easy weeknight meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this classic, no-fuss recipe that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
2. Instructions for Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions for Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

• In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and cottage cheese. Mix until well blended.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Spoon half of the beef mixture over the noodles. Then, spread half of the creamy mixture over the beef.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and creamy mixture.
• Sprinkle the top with the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Notes

• Pasta Tip: Don’t overcook the egg noodles—make sure they are al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Cottage Cheese Substitute: If you prefer, you can substitute ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add diced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Turkey Casserole: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture if you enjoy a bit of spice.
• Cheese Variations: Use Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Poor Man’s Husband Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is the perfect combination of rich flavors, creamy textures, and hearty ingredients—all on a budget. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and feeds a crowd, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Give this budget-friendly casserole a try, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Happy cooking, and enjoy this classic comfort dish!