Sometimes, the most satisfying meals come from humble ingredients and simple preparations. Enter the ‘Poor Man Husband Casserole,’ a budget-friendly dish that marries ground meat, flavorful tomatoes, and velvety mashed potatoes, crowned with a golden layer of melted cheddar cheese. This casserole is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank. Let’s delve into the details of this comforting recipe that’s sure to win hearts and please palates.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. minced meat
- 1 onion, cut into cubes
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced, dried tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (made from 2 pounds of potatoes)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, ensuring to drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground meat. Sauté the onion until it becomes transparent and fragrant.
- Incorporate the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the meat mixture is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes using your preferred method. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the ground beef mixture to a greased 9″ x 13″ baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, ensuring to spread them to coat the entire surface.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes, creating a tempting layer of cheesy goodness.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the casserole is heated through.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion: The ‘Poor Man Husband Casserole’ is not just a meal; it’s a testament to the beauty of simplicity in the kitchen. This budget-friendly dish brings together affordable ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful experience that will satisfy both your appetite and your wallet. So, gather your loved ones, serve up a generous portion, and relish in the warmth of a homemade casserole that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite. Enjoy!