Discover the ultimate comfort food with our savory Poor Man Husband Casserole recipe! Packed with flavorful ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender egg noodles, this budget-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Easy to make and oh-so-delicious, it’s a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather the ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs. Ground beef
- 2 Cans tomato sauce (15 oz. Each)
- 8 oz. Cream cheese
- 8 oz. Sour cream
- 8 oz. Egg noodles
- 1 ½ C. Cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp. Minced garlic
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp. Sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium-high heat, saute the ground beef until it’s browned completely. Remember to drain any excess grease to keep the dish lighter and healthier.
2. Season and Saute
Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Allow them to saute for an additional 30 seconds to infuse the flavors.
3. Sauce it Up
Now, pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle in some sugar to balance the acidity. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to develop rich flavors.
4. Creamy Mixture
While the meat and sauce are simmering, mix together the sour cream and cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This delightful mixture will add a luxurious richness to your casserole.
5. Cook the Noodles
In a separate pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly.
6. Layer and Bake
Now it’s time to assemble your casserole! Start by placing half of the cooked egg noodles in an even layer at the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top the noodles with half of the cream cheese mixture and half of the meat mixture. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
7. Sprinkle and Bake
Finally, sprinkle the top of the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible cheesy finish. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole for a quick and convenient meal later on.
5. Can I use different types of cheese?
Of course! Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
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