Name: Poor Man Husband Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz tomato sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 12 oz egg noodles or rotini; 1 cup sour cream; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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This cozy and budget-friendly casserole is a layered dish of ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture that comes together for the perfect family-style dinner. It’s warm, filling, and incredibly easy to make, which is why it’s been a favorite in many households for years. I love how it takes humble ingredients and transforms them into something comforting and delicious. Poor Man Husband Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple and satisfying this casserole is. It’s a perfect go-to when I want to make something hearty without breaking the bank. The creamy cheese layer adds a rich contrast to the savory beef and pasta, while the tomato sauce ties it all together beautifully. It’s also a great make-ahead dish, making my weeknights so much easier. Plus, it reheats like a dream, which means leftovers are just as good—if not better—the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Tomato sauce
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Egg noodles or rotini
Sour cream
Cream cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, I brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink. I drain any excess grease.
Then I stir in the tomato sauce and season it with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
While the sauce simmers, I cook the pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente, then drain.
In a separate bowl, I combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
I layer the casserole in a greased baking dish: first half the pasta, then the cheese mixture, followed by half the meat sauce. I repeat the layers once more.
Finally, I sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese.
I bake it uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Servings and timing

This casserole serves 6 to 8 people generously. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 20 minutes to cook the components, and 25 minutes to bake—so the total time is roughly 1 hour.

Variations

I sometimes switch things up by using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. For a spicier version, I like to add red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese on top. I’ve also added sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra veggies. Swapping the pasta for gluten-free noodles works just fine if needed.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For reheating, I usually warm individual portions in the microwave, but the oven works well too—about 20 minutes at 350°F. It also freezes well. I freeze it before baking, then thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

FAQs

How do I make this casserole ahead of time?

I assemble the whole casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. I let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, I like experimenting with different cheese blends like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican blend for a twist.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. I freeze it before baking or freeze leftovers after it’s been cooked. Both options work well for quick meals later.

Can I make this without cream cheese?

If I want to skip cream cheese, I usually substitute with ricotta or cottage cheese mixed with sour cream. The texture changes slightly, but it’s still creamy and tasty.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

I usually serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also great for soaking up the sauce.

Conclusion

This Poor Man Husband Casserole is the kind of recipe I keep coming back to. It’s easy, comforting, and made with ingredients I typically have on hand. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just making something warm and filling for my family, this casserole hits the spot every time.