Hey there! Get ready to dive into the ultimate comfort food with this Poor Man’s Husband Casserole. It’s a budget-friendly, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Packed with pasta, ground beef, and creamy cheese, this casserole is sure to win everyone’s heart! Let’s get cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – This pasta is the base of our casserole, providing a hearty texture and perfect bite. Boil it until al dente for the best results.
- 1 lb ground beef – The meat adds richness and protein to the dish. For a healthier twist, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the beef mixture. Finely chop for even cooking.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – A colorful addition that adds flavor and nutrition. No need to thaw; they’ll cook in the oven.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Makes the casserole creamy and comforting. You can substitute with cream of chicken if you prefer.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey perfection. Sharp cheddar works well for a more intense flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season the beef and casserole to bring out all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions – For garnish, adding a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2
In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the diced onion and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, ground beef and onion mixture, frozen vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 7
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your hearty casserole!
Equipment Needed for This Recipe
Click the links to get the equipment on Amazon.
- Large skillet – For browning the ground beef and cooking the onions.
- Large pot – To cook the elbow macaroni.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal for baking this casserole to perfection.
- Mixing spoon – For stirring all the ingredients together.
- Cheese grater – If you prefer to shred your own cheese for extra freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta like rotini or penne will work well. Just make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can use cream of chicken soup, or even make your own creamy sauce by mixing milk, butter, and flour.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once cooked, let it cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
I hope you love this cozy, budget-friendly Poor Man’s Husband Casserole as much as we do! It’s perfect for those days when you want something warm, comforting, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Don’t forget to share this recipe on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Enjoy!
