Some recipes feel like treasures, even if they’re found in the margins of a community cookbook or scrawled on a faded index card. Poor Man Husband Casserole is one of those gems. Simple, satisfying, and made from pantry staples, it proves that comfort doesn’t need to be fancy.
I first made this casserole in the early days of marriage, when stretching a grocery budget was a skill I was still learning. I needed meals that were hearty, fuss-free, and that would make my husband smile. This one delivered. Layers of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and a creamy cheese blend baked until golden and bubbly quickly earned a permanent spot in our weekly dinners.
Even now, with a little more budget flexibility and less evening time, I keep coming back to it. There’s something about that first cheesy, saucy forkful that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The beauty? No fancy ingredients. No complicated steps. Just good, comforting food made with love.
If you want a family-friendly dinner that’s affordable, comforting, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table, this casserole is it.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Egg noodles (or 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 (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Toss with butter to prevent sticking and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
3. Prepare the Creamy Layer
- In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half the noodles.
- Spread half the creamy mixture over the noodles, then half the meat sauce.
- Repeat with remaining noodles, cream mixture, and meat sauce.
5. Top & Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Rest & Serve
