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Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 1 review

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty and budget-friendly comfort food combining seasoned ground beef, creamy noodles, and a melty cheese topping. This baked casserole is perfect for a satisfying family meal that’s easy to prepare and full of rich, flavorful layers.

Ingredients

Meat Mixture

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tsp Tony's Creole seasoning, divided
  • ½ onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped
  • Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

Pasta & Sauce

  • 6 oz wide egg noodles
  • 14 oz can tomato sauce
  • ⅓ cup water
  • Pinch of sugar

Creamy Mixture

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 4 oz sour cream
  • 1 tsp Tony's Creole seasoning (from the divided amount)

Cheese Toppings

  • 8 oz freshly shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
  • 2 oz freshly shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meat: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add the ground beef and break it up using a meat masher or spoon.
  2. Season and cook the beef: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of Tony’s Creole seasoning over the beef. Cook until the beef is nearly browned, then add the chopped onions, garlic, cracked black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Sauté everything together until the meat is fully browned.
  3. Cook the noodles: While the meat cooks, boil the wide egg noodles in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Add tomato sauce: Once the beef is browned, drain excess grease if necessary, then pour in the tomato sauce.
  5. Simmer the sauce: Use the empty tomato sauce can to measure ⅓ cup of water and add it to the pan, adding a pinch of sugar. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  6. Make creamy mixture: In a large bowl or measuring cup, whisk together softened cream cheese, sour cream, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Tony’s Creole seasoning. Microwave cream cheese for about 15 seconds if still firm to soften it.
  7. Toss noodles in cream mixture: Add the cooked noodles to the creamy mixture and toss until they are evenly coated.
  8. Assemble the casserole: Grease a baking dish with cooking spray. Spread a ladle of meat sauce over the bottom. Layer half of the creamy noodles evenly, then sprinkle 4 oz of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Top with 2–3 ladles of meat sauce and spread evenly. Repeat with the remaining creamy noodles, 4 oz Colby Jack, and rest of meat sauce. Finish with shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  9. Bake and rest: Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted. Let it rest for 20–25 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Tony’s Creole seasoning.
  • Make sure to not overcook the noodles; al dente texture is best for baking.
  • If cream cheese is too firm, soften it in the microwave in short bursts to avoid melting.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/poor-mans-husband-casserole-recipe/