This recipe is called the 'Poor Man Husband Casserole' but you'll feel nothing but rich after eating it

Growing up, my grandmother used to make a casserole she called "Poor Man Husband Casserole." It was a simple yet comforting dish that always managed to bring our family together around the dinner table. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it not only represents a delicious meal but also embodies the spirit of resourcefulness and creativity in the kitchen.

The name itself might pique your curiosity. What exactly is a "Poor Man Husband Casserole"? Well, let me share the story behind it. My grandmother, a thrifty and imaginative cook, created this dish during a time when money was tight. She had to come up with a meal that would stretch her ingredients while satisfying her family's hunger. The result was a flavorful and filling casserole that became an instant hit.

Picture this: layers of tender ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, smothered in a rich tomato sauce, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. As the casserole bakes in the oven, the aroma fills the kitchen, teasing your senses and making your mouth water. The golden crust that forms on top of the mashed potatoes adds a delightful crunch, while the cheesy goodness underneath melds perfectly with the savory meat. Each bite is a heavenly combination of textures and flavors, leaving you longing for more.

So why should you save and make this recipe? Because it not only honors tradition and frugality but also brings warmth and togetherness to your table. It's a dish that reminds us of the power of ingenuity in the kitchen, showing that you can create something truly special even with humble ingredients. Whether you're cooking for your loved ones or simply seeking comfort in a meal, the Poor Man Husband Casserole is the perfect choice.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Poor Man Husband Casserole:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from 2 pounds of potatoes)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Meanwhile, prepare the mashed potatoes using your preferred method. You can 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 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture, spreading them to cover the entire surface.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.