Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. This comforting casserole combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup water
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Pasta:
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and cook until the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
Mix Sauces:
Add the cream of mushroom soup, tomato soup, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, and oregano).
Combine with Pasta:
Stir the cooked macaroni into the meat and sauce mixture until well combined.
Assemble Casserole:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips
Substitutions: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, corn, or peas, to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Cheese: Use your favorite type of cheese, or mix different cheeses for a unique flavor.
This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget. Enjoy the comforting flavors and hearty ingredients!