Description

This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is the ultimate budget-friendly comfort food! Layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese filling, tender egg noodles, and a gooey cheddar topping, this dish is hearty, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Easy to make with pantry staples, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1 ½ lbs ground beef
2 cans (15 oz. each) tomato sauce
8 oz egg noodles
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz sour cream

For the Topping:

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the egg noodles until al dente, according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Add tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk together cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer half of the cooked noodles at the bottom.
Spread half of the meat sauce over the noodles.
Evenly spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the beef.
Repeat the layers: remaining noodles, remaining beef sauce, and the rest of the cheese mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for 10 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy warm, served with garlic bread or a side salad.

Notes

Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Variations: Try using ground turkey, sausage, or shredded chicken for a different twist.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American Comfort Food