Poor Man Husband Casserole

The “Poor Man’s Husband Casserole” is a budget-friendly, hearty dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It typically involves inexpensive ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and canned vegetables. Here’s a simple recipe you can follow:

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey if you want a leaner version)

• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly

• 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables (or any canned veggies you prefer like peas, carrots, corn)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar works great, but any cheese you like)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

• 1/2 cup milk (optional for creaminess)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. If there’s excess grease, drain it. Add the chopped onion (and garlic if you’re using it) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.

3. Season the beef: Add salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme (or Italian seasoning). Stir to combine and set aside.

4. Prepare the casserole layers:

   • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

   • Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish.

   • Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.

   • Spread the mixed vegetables evenly over the beef layer.

   • Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.

5. Add the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk (if using). Pour this mixture over the casserole, covering it evenly.

6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole.

7. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

8. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve!

Tips:

• You can swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a different type of canned soup if you prefer (e.g., cream of chicken, or cream of celery).

• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even mushrooms.

• If you don’t have milk, you can use sour cream or even just water in a pinch.