Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of savory ground beef, taco seasoning, and creamy mushroom soup creates a delicious, well-seasoned filling, while the egg noodles provide a hearty base. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s the ultimate cheesy, creamy casserole that will make you feel warm and satisfied. The best part? It’s quick, simple, and uses common pantry staples, making it both easy to prepare and budget-friendly.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning mix
8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat, breaking the beef apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Soup
Stir in the taco seasoning mix and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 3: Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked and drained egg noodles to the beef mixture. Stir in the sour cream and mix until everything is well combined and coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and noodle mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then serve. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy casserole!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
Add Veggies: Stir in some frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers to add more color and nutrition to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to spice up the casserole.
Creamy Spin: For a richer flavor, use cream cheese in place of some or all of the sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm up the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini if you prefer.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar cheese for other varieties like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little heat.

5. Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

6. Can I make this casserole spicier?

Yes, add a packet of spicy taco seasoning or some diced green chilies or jalapeños to give the dish some extra heat.

7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef if you want a leaner version of this casserole.

8. Can I add beans to the casserole?

Yes, you can stir in cooked black beans or kidney beans to add fiber and make the casserole more filling.

9. Can I make this casserole without taco seasoning?

If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt.

10. How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Make sure to cook the noodles until they are al dente (slightly firm) before adding them to the casserole mixture, and be careful not to overbake the casserole.

Conclusion

Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is a satisfying and budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With its hearty ground beef, creamy filling, and melted cheese topping, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy nights or when you want a meal that’s both easy to prepare and filling. This casserole is great for families, and it can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that feeds a crowd, this casserole is a winner every time!