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Poor Man’s Casserole

Poor Man’s Casserole
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This Poor Man’s Casserole is a quick, budget-friendly, and comforting one-dish meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. It uses simple pantry staples like ground meat, mixed vegetables, cream soup, instant mashed potatoes, and cheese to create a hearty and satisfying casserole perfect for busy weeknights. Adaptable and easy to customize, this dish blends savory flavors and rich textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or chicken soup
  • Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

Topping

  • 1 package instant mashed potatoes (prepared according to package instructions)
  • 1 to 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite meltable cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Brown the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the mixed vegetables, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then mix in the canned cream soup until combined to create a rich filling.
  2. Layer in the Baking Dish: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture evenly into a baking dish, forming the savory base of your casserole.
  3. Prepare the Topping: Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package directions for a fluffy, creamy consistency. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture, fully covering it.
  4. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the mashed potato layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool briefly to allow flavors to meld. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Poor Man’s Casserole!

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme to brighten the flavor.
  • Do not overcook the mashed potatoes; slightly undercook so they stay fluffy after baking.
  • Mix cheese varieties such as sharp cheddar and mozzarella for melty stretch and bold flavor.
  • Drain excess liquid from meat and vegetables to prevent a soggy casserole.
  • Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for convenience.

Nutrition

Keywords: Poor Man’s Casserole, budget-friendly casserole, easy baked casserole, comforting dinner, ground beef casserole, quick meals, one-dish meal

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/poor-mans-casserole/