Poor Man Husband Casserole
Hearty, Humble, and Full of Love: Poor Man Husband Casserole
Some dishes carry the warmth of home, no matter how simple their origins. Maybe it was scribbled in the margins of a church cookbook, or passed down through kitchen conversations—Poor Man Husband Casserole is one of those recipes. It’s not flashy, but it’s the kind of food that fills your belly and stays in your memory.
I remember making it during those early days of marriage—back when I was learning how to stretch a dollar and still make something that felt like a treat. It checked every box: affordable, filling, and a guaranteed way to earn a smile across the dinner table.
Years later, it’s still a go-to. Even with more room in the grocery budget, I come back to it for its comforting layers—buttery noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, all baked into golden, bubbly perfection.
If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing casserole made with everyday ingredients and no complicated steps, this dish might just become a favorite in your kitchen too.
🍽️ Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Egg noodles (or any short pasta) | 12 oz |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Medium onion, diced | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Diced tomatoes, drained | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp (to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar or mozzarella | 2 cups |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the noodles until just al dente, then drain.
Toss with butter to prevent sticking, and set aside.
2. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink.
Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Mix the Creamy Layer
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Build the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer half of the noodles in the dish.
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the noodles.
Top with half the meat sauce.
Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, cream mixture, and sauce.
5. Add Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm and enjoy the cozy satisfaction in every bite.
Tip: This casserole makes great leftovers—just reheat and enjoy all over again. Want to freeze it for later? Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking!
