Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

Description

This budget-friendly comfort food classic layers savory ground beef, pasta, and creamy tomato goodness with a cheesy topping. A hit in many households, the name reflects its roots as a satisfying and filling meal using simple, affordable ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family!

Ingredients for Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cups egg noodles (uncooked)

• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil egg noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté diced onions until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in tomato sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Mix the creamy layer: In a bowl, combine cottage cheese and sour cream.

4. Assemble: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:

   • Layer half of the noodles, then spread half of the creamy mixture.

   • Add half of the meat sauce.

   • Repeat layers.

5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top.

6. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is golden.

7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions or parsley if desired.

Notes

• You can swap cottage cheese with ricotta if preferred.

• Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.

• Try using rotini or penne in place of egg noodles.

• Let rest 5–10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.

Tips

• For extra richness, add a sprinkle of Parmesan with the cheddar.

• Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more veggies.

• Prep in advance and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• This freezes well—wrap tightly and store up to 2 months.

Servings

Makes 6–8 servings

Nutritional Info (Per serving – approx.)

• Calories: 400

• Protein: 23g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 550mg
  (Values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used.)

Benefits

• Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients.

• Protein-rich: Ground beef and cottage cheese offer high protein.

• Customizable: Easy to adapt with veggies or different meats.

• Family-approved: Kid-friendly flavor and texture.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this low-carb?
A: Yes! Swap noodles for zucchini ribbons or cauliflower rice.

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Absolutely. It lightens the dish and adds more protein.

Q: Does it taste like lasagna?
A: Similar! It has lasagna vibes but with noodles instead of pasta sheets and a slightly tangier flavor due to cottage cheese and sour cream.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.