Are you looking for a cozy, filling meal that doesn’t break the bank? Look no further! “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole” is a simple yet hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family on a budget. This comforting casserole combines ground beef, pasta, and a medley of vegetables into a savory, cheesy dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is quick, affordable, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s satisfying, easy to prepare, and affordable, here are a few reasons why “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole” should be on your dinner table tonight:
- Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need a long shopping list. This recipe uses everyday ingredients like ground beef, pasta, cheese, and veggies, making it perfect for a last-minute meal.
- Simple & Quick: The casserole comes together in no time, with minimal prep. It’s an ideal choice for busy days when you still want something homemade.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory flavors of this dish. It’s great for picky eaters and can be easily customized to suit different tastes.
- Budget-Friendly: As the name suggests, “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole” is affordable. It’s the kind of dish that stretches your budget while still offering a filling, comforting meal.
- Versatile: You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have in the fridge or pantry, making it a great recipe for using up leftovers.
Ingredients Needed
To make “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole”, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen carrots, chopped
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional substitutions:
- Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese substitute and opt for a non-dairy soup option.
- Gluten-free: Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook it according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then add the peas and carrots. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
- Mix in the Soup and Pasta: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, mixing until everything is well combined. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir again.
- Layer and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy casserole!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add spice: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it creamy: For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese into the beef mixture before baking.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils, tofu, or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian twist on this classic dish.
- Cheese variety: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
How to Store & Reheat Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
- Storing leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed making “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole,” you’re in for a treat with these other comforting casserole dishes! Both are perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering delicious flavors and easy preparation. For a creamy, savory side dish, try the Green Bean Casserole – a classic favorite that pairs well with almost any main course. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, Sweet Potato Casserole is the way to go. Its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Check out the full recipes below:
FAQ about Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Can I freeze Poor Man’s Husband Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it later. It’s a great option for meal prepping or making a quick dinner for guests.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Corn, green beans, or bell peppers would work well in this casserole.
“Poor Man’s Husband Casserole” is a fantastic comfort food that combines simplicity, affordability, and heartwarming flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or need a budget-friendly meal for yourself, this recipe is a must-try. Give it a go and let us know how you enjoyed it by leaving a comment below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and follow us for more easy and delicious recipes!
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen carrots chopped
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup for a variation
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional Substitutes:
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free cheese and non-dairy cream of mushroom soup.
- Gluten-free: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook it according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the peas and carrots, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup. Once well combined, add the cooked pasta and mix everything together.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.