Poor Man’s Casserole
Poor Man’s Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. Combining tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy blend of sour cream and cream cheese, this casserole is topped with melted Cheddar for a delicious finish.
It’s an easy-to-make recipe perfect for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Comforting and Hearty: It combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory ground beef, making it a satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
Easy to Prepare: The straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels.
Family-Friendly: Its familiar flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Leftovers reheat well, providing convenient meals for busy days.
Key Ingredients:
Egg Noodles: Provide a tender base that holds the casserole together.
Ground Beef: Adds hearty, savory flavor and protein.
Sour Cream and Cream Cheese: Create a rich and creamy texture.
Tomato Sauce: Infuses the dish with tangy, savory notes.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts on top for a delicious, cheesy finish.
Italian Seasoning and Garlic: Enhance the flavor with aromatic herbs and spice.
Poor Man’s Casserole
Ingredients
8 ounces egg noodles, cooked
8 ounces sour cream
8 ounces cream cheese
2 tsp garlic, freshly minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp sugar
2 cans of tomato sauce
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, cook the ground beef until fully browned.
Flavor the Meat:
Drain excess grease from the pan.
Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking on low for about a minute.
Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar.
Season and Mix:
Add salt and pepper to taste, cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
In a separate bowl, blend the sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.
Prepare Noodles:
Cook egg noodles as per package instructions.
Once cooked, drain and layer half in a 9×13 baking dish.
Assemble Casserole:
Spread half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles.
Spoon half of the meat sauce over the top.
Repeat and Bake:
Repeat the layering with remaining ingredients.
Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
Notes:
Noodle Alternatives: You can use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini if egg noodles are unavailable.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor.
Meat Options: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef.
Vegetable Additions: Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve for a convenient meal option.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Carbohydrates: 30 g | Fat: 25 g | Saturated Fat: 12 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 6 g | Sodium: 800 mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it.
Bake when ready to serve for up to 24 hours later.
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
You can substitute with other pasta like penne or rotini.
Just cook them according to package instructions.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make it spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes, replace ground beef with plant-based meat or add more vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a meatless option.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer for a different flavor profile.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure to cover it with foil while baking to retain moisture, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
You can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is ready when it’s heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, usually after 20-25 minutes at 350°F.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition.
Sauté them with the beef for the best results.