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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks to avoid clumps.
Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pan, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like, you can add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of the thinly sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture. Add a handful of the frozen mixed vegetables on top of the beef. You can use any combination of vegetables you have on hand, but peas, carrots, and corn work particularly well.
Spread the cream of mushroom soup over the top of the vegetables. If you want a creamier texture, you can mix the soup with 1/2 cup of milk before spreading it on the casserole. The soup helps bind the layers together and adds moisture to the dish.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake
After layering, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This will melt into the casserole, adding a rich, cheesy layer that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup and hearty potatoes.
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives the layers time to set, making it easier to cut into squares. Serve this warm, hearty casserole with a side of salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein Variety: While ground beef is the classic choice, you can swap it out for other proteins like ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage. For a meatless version, try using beans or lentils as a substitute.
- Vegetable Options: You can use fresh vegetables if you prefer. Potatoes, carrots, onions, and bell peppers are all great choices. Just make sure to cook the vegetables a bit before layering them, as they may not cook through entirely in the casserole otherwise.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the ground beef mixture. Alternatively, you can use spicy cheese or salsa to add flavor.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp Gruyère for a different twist on the flavor.
- Make it Ahead: Poor Man’s Husband Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep or preparing a dinner the night before.
Why You’ll Love Poor Man’s Husband Casserole
This casserole is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something satisfying and delicious. It’s a family-friendly meal that doesn’t require a lot of fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for customization—you can use whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand, and the result will always be comforting and filling.
The beauty of Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is in its versatility. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just looking for an affordable, tasty meal for yourself, this casserole has got you covered. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or when you just want something familiar and comforting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, affordable, and delicious dinner that can feed the whole family, Poor Man’s Husband Casserole is the perfect solution. This dish offers all the warmth and satisfaction of a homemade meal, but at a fraction of the cost of takeout or dining out. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that gets even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.
So, the next time you need to stretch your food budget or just want a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss, whip up a batch of this simple, hearty casserole. Whether you call it Poor Man’s Husband Casserole or simply comfort food, one thing’s for sure: it’ll hit the spot.
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