Description
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a creamy mushroom sauce topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make casserole combines familiar pantry ingredients to create a delicious family-friendly meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and facilitate even cooking.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain to remove excess water and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook Ground Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer half of the cooked macaroni in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the pasta, then add the remaining macaroni on top.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Pour the cream sauce evenly over the casserole. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top to create a delicious 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 is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- The cheeses can be adjusted based on preference or availability; Monterey Jack or mozzarella alone also works well.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just increase the baking time slightly.
