Poor Man's Husband Casserole Recipe
Poor Man's Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, delicious, and easy-to-make comfort food that combines ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and cheese into one mouth-watering dish. This hearty casserole is perfect for feeding a family without spending a fortune. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to please with its savory flavors and cheesy goodness.
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.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian alternative.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorite cheeses.
Make It Spicy: For added heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.