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Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned.
  3. Add the diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion softens, about 3-5 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and paprika (if using). Mix well.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  3. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the meat layer and spread evenly.
  4. Add the cooked pasta as the next layer, spreading it out to cover the dish.
  5. Top with shredded cheese, followed by breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy finish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

  1. Swap the Soup: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
  2. Add Veggies: Mix in frozen peas, diced carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  3. Use Leftovers: Substitute leftover chicken or ground pork for the ground beef.
  4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and soup for a gluten-free version.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side Dish: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Bread Pairing: Serve with dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Condiments: Add a dollop of ketchup or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Why It’s Called “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole”

This dish earned its name as a nod to its budget-friendly nature, making it ideal for families stretching their grocery dollars. Despite its humble roots, the casserole is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort.


Conclusion

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make a meal that warms both the heart and the stomach. Whether you’re feeding a family, looking for a quick dinner solution, or simply craving comfort food, this casserole delivers every time.

Try this recipe tonight, and discover why it’s been a staple in kitchens for generations!

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