Introduction
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that has become a household favorite for many. It combines simple ingredients into a hearty and filling meal that can feed a family without breaking the bank. The casserole is perfect for busy nights when you want to prepare something quick, satisfying, and affordable.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a reflection of the resourcefulness of home cooks, particularly during times of economic hardship. Its origins are tied to the tradition of making do with what you have on hand, often combining pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients to create a satisfying meal. It has been passed down through generations and continues to be a beloved comfort food in many homes.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked macaroni or pasta of choice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk
Optional Additions
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp dried oregano or basil
- 1/2 cup sour cream for a creamier texture
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Tips for Success
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming too soft when baked.
- For a richer flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef.
- If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute with cream of chicken or any other preferred cream soup.
- To make the casserole ahead of time, assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onions and garlic powder to the beef, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, milk, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, then transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired, then bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Description
This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and savory dish that brings together familiar comfort foods. The hearty combination of ground beef, creamy soup, pasta, and melted cheese makes for a satisfying and filling meal. With a blend of rich flavors and textures, it’s a dish that both kids and adults will love.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 4g
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is an excellent meal for anyone looking for an easy, delicious, and cost-effective dinner option. It’s hearty and satisfying, and with the option to add or substitute various ingredients, it can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be made in advance for added convenience.
Recommendation
This casserole is ideal for those who are looking to feed a family or have a crowd over without spending too much money. It’s a great meal to prepare for a busy day, and leftovers reheat well, making it even more convenient. Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who enjoys hearty, simple meals, this casserole is a reliable and delicious option.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this dish is comforting and indulgent, it can be made healthier by incorporating lean ground turkey instead of beef, using whole-grain pasta, and adding more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase fiber content.