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Poor Man's Husband Casserole

Jessica Tran
This Poor Man's Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, comforting, and cheesy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you will have a hearty, family-friendly dinner on the table in under an hour.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • 9x13-Inch Baking Dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Cheese grater (optional)
  • Oven mitts
  • Serving spoon

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 3 cups egg noodles or substitute with gluten-free noodles or cooked spaghetti
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded (or substitute with Colby jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)

Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 8 oz block cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup sour cream or substitute with plain Greek yogurt

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Noodles:

  • Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the egg noodles and cook just shy of the time recommended on the package (they will finish cooking in the oven).
  • Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it's browned and no longer pink.
  • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
  • Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cooked noodles into the dish.
  • Layer it with half of the creamy sauce, spreading it evenly.
  • Add half of the meat mixture on top.
  • Repeat the layering process with the remaining noodles, creamy sauce, and meat mixture.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake:

  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Video

Notes

Pro Tips
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercooking the noodles helps them stay firm while baking.
Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties that contain additives.
Customize It: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to adjust for the chill.
Freeze for Later: Wrap unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Notes
This recipe is a nostalgic comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or to share with loved ones. Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Pair with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy this delicious and budget-friendly casserole that is guaranteed to become a beloved staple!