Description
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, creamy mushroom soup, and a melty cheese topping. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying meal with layers of tender pasta, savory meat, and a golden cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dry and Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Canned and Dairy
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside, making sure the pasta is ready to assemble the casserole.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper, then simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Mix Creamy Sauce: In a separate small bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the sour cream, stirring until smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer half of the cooked macaroni into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Evenly spread the meat and tomato mixture over the macaroni layer. Add the remaining macaroni on top of the beef mixture.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the creamy mushroom soup and sour cream mixture evenly over the assembled layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses across the top to create a cheesy crust when baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes after baking to let it set for easier slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, savory dish.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef mixture.
- Can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this casserole gluten-free.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
