Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that combines ground beef, tender egg noodles, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. This simple yet hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick, filling dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
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8 ounces egg noodles
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1½ pounds ground beef
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2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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8 ounces sour cream
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2 teaspoons minced garlic
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon sugar
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
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Cook the Noodles
Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just tender. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking. -
Prepare the Beef Sauce
In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir in tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes. -
Make the Creamy Layer
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream until smooth and creamy. -
Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half the noodles to the bottom. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the noodles, then layer half of the beef-tomato sauce. -
Repeat Layers
Add the rest of the noodles, the remaining cream mixture, and the rest of the beef sauce. -
Top and Bake
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6–8
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
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Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
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Pasta Choices: Use penne, rotini, or wide egg noodles—all work well.
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Dairy Substitutes: Swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze fully assembled (unbaked or baked) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
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Reheating: Microwave or bake at 325°F until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or wide egg noodles all work well—just don't overcook them.
Can I swap the cream cheese or sour cream?
You can use plain Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, or ricotta in place of cream cheese, though flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Is it spicy?
Not at all—it's mild and comforting. Want heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or swap in spicy tomato sauce.
Can I prep it ahead?
Absolutely—assemble the full casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or a blend of cheeses can be used instead of cheddar.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well. Assemble and freeze before baking, or bake and then freeze.
How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
Cook the noodles just until al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Certainly! Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
While not tested, you can try layering the ingredients in a slow cooker and cooking on low for 3–4 hours.
Can I make this without meat?
Yes, replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its creamy layers, savory beef sauce, and melted cheese topping, it's a meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers, this casserole is sure to please.
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, comforting family dinner made with ground beef, egg noodles, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and filling meal everyone will love. Packed with flavor and easy to make, this casserole is a simple yet satisfying choice for dinner!
- Cook Time: 20 minute
- Total Time: 25–30 minutes
- Yield: 50 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 ounces egg noodles
1½ pounds ground beef
2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces sour cream
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Cook the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles in salted water until just tender. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking.
-
Prepare the Beef Sauce: In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir in tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
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Make the Creamy Layer: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream until smooth and creamy.
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Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half the noodles to the bottom. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the noodles, then layer half of the beef-tomato sauce.
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Repeat Layers: Add the rest of the noodles, the remaining cream mixture, and the rest of the beef sauce.
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Top and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Notes
-
Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
-
Pasta Choices: Penne, rotini, or wide egg noodles work well.
-
Dairy Substitutes: Swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese.
-
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
