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Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

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Introduction

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a budget-friendly, stick-to-your-ribs meal made with simple pantry ingredients. Hearty ground beef, tender noodles, creamy sauce, and melted cheese come together for a filling dish that feeds a family without breaking the bank.

Origin

This casserole traces back to mid-20th-century American home cooking, when stretching ingredients and feeding hardworking families was essential. It earned its name from being affordable, filling, and satisfying enough to keep everyone full.

Cultural Significance

Often found in church cookbooks and handwritten recipe boxes, this dish represents resourcefulness, comfort, and home-cooked love—meals made to nourish both body and spirit.

Ingredients and Quantities

  • 450 g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Additions

  • Frozen peas or corn
  • Mushrooms
  • Paprika or garlic powder
  • Breadcrumb topping for crunch

Tips for Success

  1. Season the Beef Well: Adds depth to simple ingredients.
  2. Don’t Overcook Noodles: They finish in the oven.
  3. Mix Thoroughly: Even creaminess throughout.
  4. Let Rest Before Serving: Helps it set nicely.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Cook Beef:
    • Heat oil in skillet.
    • Brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
    • Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Make Sauce:
    • In a bowl, mix cream soups and sour cream until smooth.
  7. Assemble Casserole:
    • Combine beef, noodles, sauce, and half the cheese.
    • Spread into baking dish.
    • Top with remaining cheese.
  9. Bake:
    • Bake uncovered 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  11. Serve:
    • Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Description

This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting, with tender noodles and savory beef in every bite. Simple, filling, and nostalgic.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated fat: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Protein: 26 g

Conclusion

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole proves that humble ingredients can create deeply satisfying meals. It’s affordable, reliable, and perfect for busy families.

Recommendation

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Great for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Use lean ground beef, reduced-fat soups, or add extra vegetables to enjoy this comforting dish with a lighter touch—without losing its soul.

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