Budget-Friendly Husband Casserole
Some dishes feel like little treasures—passed down through community cookbooks, scribbled on index cards, or remembered from leaner times. Poor Man Husband Casserole is one of those classics. It’s simple, filling, and built from everyday pantry staples, proving that comfort food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.
I first made this casserole early in my marriage, back when stretching a grocery budget took creativity and patience. I needed meals that were hearty, easy, and satisfying enough to bring a smile to my husband’s face. This recipe checked every box. With layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture baked until bubbly and golden, it quickly became a regular at our dinner table.
Even now—when life is busier and the budget a little easier—I still return to this recipe. That first forkful of cheesy, saucy goodness feels like coming home after a long day. There are no fancy ingredients and no tricky steps—just honest, comforting food made with care.
If you’re looking for an affordable, family-friendly meal that brings everyone together, this casserole never disappoints.
🍽️ 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 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Shredded cheddar or mozzarella | 2 cups |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook 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 keep them from sticking and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Make the creamy mixture
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the noodles in the dish, followed by half of the creamy mixture and half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining noodles, cream mixture, and meat sauce.
5. Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Rest and serve
Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Spoon it out warm and enjoy every comforting bite.
