Poor Man Husband Casserole
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Some recipes feel like heirlooms, even if they were discovered in the margins of a community cookbook or scribbled on a faded index card. Poor Man Husband Casserole is one of those dishes. It’s simple, satisfying, and built from pantry staples—proof that comfort doesn’t require extravagance.
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I first made this casserole in the early days of marriage, when stretching a grocery budget was both a necessity and a skill I was still learning. I needed meals that were filling, fuss-free, and made my husband smile. This one delivered. With layers of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and a creamy cheese blend baked until golden and bubbly, it quickly earned a permanent spot in our weekly rotation.
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Even now, with more flexibility in the budget and less time in the evenings, I find myself coming back to it. There’s something about that first cheesy, saucy forkful that feels like a warm hug after a long day. And the beauty of it? No fancy ingredients. No complicated steps. Just good food made with love.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner that’s affordable, comforting, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table, this casserole is your answer.
🍽️ Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Egg noodles (or short pasta) | 12 oz |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Medium onion, diced | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Diced tomatoes, drained | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Toss with butter to prevent sticking and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Prepare the Creamy Layer
- In a bowl, blend softened cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half the noodles.
- Spread half the creamy mixture over noodles, followed by half the meat sauce.
- Repeat layers with remaining noodles, cream mixture, and meat sauce.
5. Top & Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Rest & Serve
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comfort in every bite.
