The Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a beloved, comforting dish that combines simple, affordable ingredients into a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a family favorite that has been passed down through generations, providing both flavor and convenience. This casserole is the perfect solution for busy nights when you need something hearty and easy to prepare, yet packed with rich flavors that everyone will love.
The combination of ground beef, tomato paste, cream cheese, and egg noodles creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a last-minute weeknight meal, this casserole delivers a satisfying and filling experience. It’s a dish that evokes memories of home-cooked meals, family gatherings, and cozy evenings spent together around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love the Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
- Simplicity at Its Best: With ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this casserole is incredibly easy to prepare.
- Comforting and Hearty: The ground beef and cream cheese create a rich, savory base, while the egg noodles offer a satisfying, filling texture.
- Versatile: This dish is perfect for families, and you can easily adjust the ingredients based on dietary needs or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s great for meal prep!
- Quick and Convenient: This casserole comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 pound ground beef
- 2 jars (16 ounces) tomato paste (8 ounces each)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 3/4 cups egg noodles (uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cane sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pan over medium-high heat, sear the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the beef and sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Step 2: Add the Tomato Paste and Seasoning
- Stir in the tomato paste, cane sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the beef. Let this simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Cook the Egg Noodles
- While the beef mixture is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles until they’re just shy of al dente (about 6-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Layer half of the cooked egg noodles at the bottom of the dish.
- Spoon half of the beef mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
- Add half of the cream cheese mixture on top of the beef, spreading it out evenly to cover the meat.
- Repeat the layers: another layer of noodles, followed by the remaining beef mixture, and top with the remaining cream cheese mixture.
Step 6: Bake and Add Cheese
- Place the casserole in the oven and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and hot throughout.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and top with the shredded cheddar cheese. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Husband Casserole:
- Make it Your Own: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Double the Recipe: This casserole is great for meal prepping or feeding a larger group. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
- Adjust the Cheese: If you like more cheese, feel free to add more cheddar or even mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Why This Casserole Is So Popular
The Poor Man’s Husband Casserole has become a classic family dish for good reason. Not only is it affordable, but it’s also incredibly filling and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal to share with friends and family, this casserole is the answer. It’s easy to make, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. The rich combination of beef, cream cheese, and egg noodles creates a hearty meal that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
So, the next time you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dish to make for dinner, give this casserole a try. It’s sure to become a family favorite, just like it has for generations.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to this rich casserole.
- Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole and adds a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or steamed carrots would make a great side to this comforting dish.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Husband Casserole—a dish that’s bound to bring comfort and warmth to your dinner table!