Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. This comforting casserole combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and cook until the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix Sauces:
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, tomato soup, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, and oregano).
- Combine with Pasta:
- Stir the cooked macaroni into the meat and sauce mixture until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips
- Substitutions: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, corn, or peas, to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Cheese: Use your favorite type of cheese, or mix different cheeses for a unique flavor.
This Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget. Enjoy the comforting flavors and hearty ingredients!
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