Here’s a Poor Man’s Husband Casserole recipe—a hearty, budget-friendly dish that’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, it’s comfort food at its finest!
Introduction
This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a classic, no-fuss meal that’s both affordable and delicious. With layers of ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. It’s called “Poor Man’s” because it uses inexpensive ingredients, but the flavor is anything but poor!
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns (or diced potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley, green onions, or sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked beef mixture evenly.
- Layer frozen hash browns over the beef.
- Pour the soup mixture over the potatoes, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Add Veggies: Mix in diced carrots, peas, or corn for extra nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 20g
Conclusion
Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. With its layers of savory beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Simple, hearty, and delicious—what more could you ask for?