Poor Man Husband Casserole (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
1.5 pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend
02 -
1 can (16 ounces) tomato sauce
03 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
04 -
8 ounces sour cream
05 -
8 ounces wide egg noodles
06 -
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
→ Seasonings
07 -
2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
10 -
Salt, to taste
11 -
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) until it reaches full temperature.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then add minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
03 -
Stir in tomato sauce and sugar, season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to meld flavors.
04 -
In a bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and free of lumps.
05 -
Boil egg noodles in salted water following package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.
06 -
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer half the noodles, spread half the cream mixture, then half the meat sauce. Repeat layers and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
07 -
Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbling and cheese is melted and golden. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Draining the beef properly and thoroughly draining noodles prevents excess grease and sogginess.