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Poor Man’s Husband Casserole

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly comfort food classic featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights and family gatherings!


Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef

  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce

  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1 cup cottage cheese

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese


Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.

  • Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir to combine.

  • Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes.

  • Meanwhile, cook egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.

  • In a medium bowl, mix the sour cream and cottage cheese together.

  • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked noodles. Spread the sour cream and cottage cheese mixture over the noodles.

  • Top with half of the beef mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles and beef mixture.

  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Let cool slightly before serving.


Notes

  • Feel free to substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if preferred.

  • Add a sprinkle of parsley or green onions on top for extra flavor and color.

  • Great for freezing—prepare ahead and bake from frozen, adding extra time.