Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, peel and slice your potatoes into thin rounds (about 1/8-inch thick). Set them aside. You want the slices thin enough to cook evenly in the casserole, but not so thin they become mushy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or butter. Start by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the potatoes for extra seasoning. Then, spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly on top of the potatoes.
4. Add the Cream of Mushroom Soup: In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup of milk to thin it out slightly. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the ground beef layer. Use a spatula to spread it out if needed, ensuring it covers the beef and potatoes.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of the casserole. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses depending on your preference. If you love extra cheese, feel free to add more!
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is golden brown and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The layers of potatoes, beef, and creamy sauce will come together into a satisfying, comforting meal that everyone will love.

Tips for Making the Best Poor Man’s Husband Casserole:

• Customize the Vegetables: While this recipe uses potatoes and onions, you can easily add other vegetables to suit your taste. Frozen mixed vegetables, bell peppers, or even spinach can be added to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Use Leftovers: This casserole is a great way to repurpose leftovers, especially leftover cooked meat or vegetables. You can add any extra roast chicken or beef you have, or even use leftover mashed potatoes for a twist.
• Make it Vegetarian: If you want a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based protein like lentils, quinoa, or veggie crumbles. This is a great way to make the dish even more budget-friendly and still filling.
• Add Spices for Extra Flavor: If you enjoy more flavor, feel free to add spices like paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture before layering it in the casserole.
• Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and bake it when you’re ready. It’s a great option for busy days!

Why You’ll Love Poor Man’s Husband Casserole:

1. Budget-Friendly: This dish uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. It’s the perfect meal for families on a tight budget.
2. One-Pan Wonder: With minimal prep and only one pan to clean, this casserole is perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty, no-fuss meal.
3. Comforting and Hearty: The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese makes for a dish that’s warm, filling, and comforting, perfect for family dinners or even leftovers the next day.
4. Easy to Customize: Whether you want to add extra veggies, switch up the protein, or experiment with different types of cheese, this casserole can be made to suit any taste or dietary preference.
5. Leftover-Friendly: The leftovers taste just as good (if not better!) the next day, making this casserole a great option for meal prep or to feed a crowd.

Conclusion:

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole may have a simple name, but its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a standout dish in any home. This meal is perfect for those nights when you want something quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re feeding a large family, hosting a dinner party, or just need to use up ingredients you already have on hand, this casserole is sure to please. Give it a try and see why it’s become such a beloved dish in so many kitchens!