Description
This Poor Man Husband Casserole is a cozy, budget-friendly classic that layers tender egg noodles with a creamy cottage cheese and sour cream mixture, seasoned ground beef simmered in tomato sauce, and a melted cheddar cheese topping. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor—without using expensive ingredients.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meal prep, this casserole is easy to assemble and bakes into a bubbly, golden dish that feels nostalgic and satisfying. Affordable, filling, and delicious, it’s the kind of old-fashioned comfort meal that brings everyone back to the table.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 (24-ounce) jar pasta sauce or marinara
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8 ounces wide egg noodles
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1 cup sour cream
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1 cup cottage cheese
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the baking dish)
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Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish
Instructions
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the pasta sauce, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Cook egg noodles according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, combine sour cream and cottage cheese. Mix well.
Spread half of the noodles in the prepared baking dish. Top with the sour cream and cottage cheese mixture. Add the remaining noodles over the top.
Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
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Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
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For firmer layers, let the casserole rest before slicing.
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Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for easy weeknight meals.
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Swap or add vegetables to customize and boost nutrition.
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Ideal for large families, potlucks, or busy home cooks needing leftovers.