Introduction
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, offering a hearty combination of flavors and creamy textures. This budget-friendly dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a warm, satisfying meal. With tender egg noodles, savory beef, tangy sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese, every bite is rich and delightful. Follow this easy recipe to create a meal your loved ones will ask for again and again.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (30 ounces) tomato sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 12 ounces egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the mixture.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked egg noodles, sour cream, and the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Layer the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the noodle mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining noodle mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Cooking Notes:
- Noodle Variations: If you don’t have egg noodles, substitute with penne or rotini pasta for a similar texture.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition, mix in sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a gooey, stretchy topping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as instructed when ready to serve.
- Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well! Prepare an extra batch and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
40 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 880mg
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is more than just a budget-friendly recipe; it’s a love letter to simple, hearty cooking. Packed with rich flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping a dish for a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and experience the ultimate in comfort food!
PrintPoor Man’s Husband Casserole with Creamy Dressing
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cans (30 ounces) tomato sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 12 ounces egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the mixture.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked egg noodles, sour cream, and the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Layer the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the noodle mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining noodle mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
Step 3: Bake
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Cool and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 880mg
- Protein: 25g