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This hearty casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, tender noodles, and gooey cheese into a budget-friendly meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a potluck hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base for the casserole. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for seasoning the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and enhances flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, rich sauce. Substitute with cream of chicken or celery if preferred.
- ½ cup (120ml) milk: Thins out the soup for a smoother sauce. Use whole, skim, or plant-based milk depending on preference.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melty and sharp, cheddar is a classic choice. You can use mozzarella or a cheese blend for variation.
- 1 bag (12 oz) egg noodles or wide pasta, cooked and drained: Wide noodles hold the sauce well. Cook just shy of al dente to avoid mushiness.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds a tangy, juicy layer that balances the richness.
- Optional: Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no pink remains. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
4. Sauté Onions:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
5. Season the Meat:
Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasoning evenly. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. This sauce will help bind the casserole together and add a creamy texture.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer 1: Spread half of the cooked noodles evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Layer 2: Top the noodles with half of the ground beef mixture.
- Layer 3: Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Layer 4: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the soup layer.
- Layer 5: Scatter half of the drained diced tomatoes for a tangy flavor boost (optional but recommended).
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: noodles, beef, soup mixture, and cheese.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Tips for Best Results:
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles:
Since the noodles will continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercook them during boiling to prevent them from becoming mushy. - Drain the Beef Well:
Excess fat can make the casserole greasy. Use a colander or paper towels to drain the beef thoroughly. - Customize the Cheese:
While cheddar is a classic, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for a creamier finish. - Add Veggies:
To make this dish more nutritious, mix in frozen peas, green beans, or corn. Simply stir them into the beef mixture before layering. - Make It Ahead:
Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10-15 minutes to the baking time. - Freezing Option:
This casserole freezes well. Assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. - Leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make excellent sides to soak up the creamy sauce.
This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is not only a budget-friendly meal but also a warm, nostalgic dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen!
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