The “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe” is a hearty and budget-friendly dish that I always find myself turning to. This casserole is a wonderful mix of meat, vegetables, and potatoes, perfect for satisfying those hunger pangs without breaking the bank. I remember when I first made it; it quickly became a staple in my household, and I know it will become a favorite in yours too!
Ingredients for Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe
To get started on this delicious casserole, you will need some simple ingredients. Here’s a list for easy reference.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Optional Toppings
- Additional cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
How to Make Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe
Making this casserole is as easy as it gets. You will love how quickly you can put it together and get it baking in the oven.
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, I start by browning the ground meat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it gets soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In the same skillet, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
In a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread half of the meat mixture on top of the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and meat mixture.
Step 4: Add Broth
Pour the beef broth over the entire casserole, ensuring that the potatoes soak up that amazing flavor. This will help everything cook evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Success
Cooking can sometimes be tricky, but I have gathered a few tips to help you make the best Poor Man’s Husband Casserole.
- Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your ingredients are, the better the casserole will taste.
- Check potatoes: Since every oven is different, make sure to check the potatoes with a fork to see if they are soft enough.
- Customize: Feel free to use other veggies or even swap out the beef for ground chicken or sausage.
Variations of Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe
This casserole is very versatile. You can adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.
Different Proteins
- Ground chicken or turkey can replace beef for a leaner option.
- Cooked diced chicken or leftover meats are also great additions.
Change Up the Vegetables
I love using a variety of frozen veggies. Some options are:
- Green beans
- Bell peppers
- Broccoli
Different Soups
You can change the cream soup to add different flavors, like:
- Cream of chicken
- Cream of celery
Serving Suggestions
Once your casserole is ready, it’s time to serve!
- Pair it with a nice green salad for balance.
- Fresh bread or dinner rolls can round out the meal.
- Consider adding a tangy side dish like coleslaw.
Storage Tips
If you manage to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can easily store them.
- In the fridge, it lasts for about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- You can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave when you want to enjoy it again.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! I often make a big batch and portion it out for the week. It keeps well and is an easy reheat option for lunch or dinner on busy days.
Nutritional Information
Casseroles often get a bad rap for being unhealthy, but this one can be quite balanced.
Key Nutritional Benefits
- Protein: The meat provides much-needed protein for energy and muscle strength.
- Vegetables: The mixed veggies add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Carbohydrates: Potatoes give you energy for the day ahead.
The Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a fantastic recipe that combines health, taste, and affordability. It’s a dish that I love to make, not just for its comforting flavors but also for its ability to feed my family well without spending too much. I hope you enjoy making this casserole as much as I do! You’ll find it easy to prepare and delightful to eat. It’s a classic that is sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking!