Poor Man's Husband Casserole is a comforting and budget-friendly dish that's perfect for family dinners. This hearty casserole layers ground beef, creamy cheese, and egg noodles to create a delicious meal everyone will love.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef: Provides the protein base for the casserole.
- 2 Cans Tomato Sauce (15 oz. each): Adds a rich, tangy flavor to the meat.
- 8 oz. Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy layer that complements the beef.
- 8 oz. Sour Cream: Adds a tangy, creamy texture to the casserole.
- 8 oz. Egg Noodles: Forms the base and structure of the casserole.
- 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Melts on top for a cheesy finish.
- 2 tsp. Minced Garlic: Enhances the flavor of the beef.
- 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs to the dish.
- 1 tsp. Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the meat and sauce.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Step 2:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Step 3:
- Add Italian seasoning and garlic to the beef; cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Step 4:
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper; cook for 3-5 minutes.
- Step 5:
- In a bowl, combine sour cream and cream cheese.
- Step 6:
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Step 7:
- In a 9×13 baking dish, layer half the noodles, followed by half the cream cheese mixture, and then half the beef mixture. Repeat layers.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top layer.
- Step 9:
- Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
Serving and Storage Tips
Here are some tips on how to serve and store your Poor Man's Husband Casserole:
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Helpful Notes
Here are some additional tips and variations for the recipe:
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to lighten the dish.
- Add a layer of sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
Tips from well-known chefs
Advice from famous chefs to elevate your Poor Man's Husband Casserole:
- Chef Rachael Ray recommends adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Chef Alton Brown suggests using homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste.
- Chef Nigella Lawson advises garnishing the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.