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POOR MAN’S HUSBAND CASSEROLE

Sana Umer
This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly comfort dish packed with layers of creamy noodles, savory ground beef, and melted cheese. It’s easy, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cups egg noodles cooked and drained
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 8-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Layer:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.

Cook the Beef:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Prepare the Creamy Mixture:

  • In a medium bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Layer half of the noodles in the baking dish. Add half the meat mixture, then spread the creamy layer over it. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining meat sauce on top.

Add Cheese and Bake:

  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

  • Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Customizing the Flavor: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Keyword budget dinner, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food recipe, Easy Casserole, ground beef casserole, poor man’s casserole