Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Poor Man’s Casserole

Poor Man’s Casserole

Poor Man’s Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly, and comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining ground meat, vegetables, creamy mushroom soup, and a starchy base like potatoes or rice, this casserole is quick to prepare, customizable to your taste or dietary needs, and topped with crispy French fried onions for delightful texture.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups green beans or mixed vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)

Base

  • 2 cups diced potatoes (raw) or 2 cups cooked rice

Binders and Toppings

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup French fried onions
  • 1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground meat until browned all the way through, stirring occasionally. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic halfway through cooking to soften and release their flavors.
  2. Prepare the Base Ingredients: While the meat cooks, dice or slice the potatoes or cook rice according to package instructions. Drain and measure your veggies if using frozen or canned.
  3. Combine and Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine the browned meat mixture, prepared vegetables, cooked rice or potatoes, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Transfer to a Baking Dish and Add Toppings: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, then add a generous layer of French fried onions for a crunchy topping.
  5. Bake Until Hot and Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden and crispy. Let it cool slightly before serving to set.

Notes

  • Use ground meat with at least 10% fat for better flavor and moisture.
  • Drain excess grease after browning the meat to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Under-cook potatoes slightly if boiling before baking to prevent mushiness.
  • Add crispy toppings like French fried onions in the last 10 minutes of baking to keep their texture.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free soup and toppings)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: Poor Man’s Casserole, budget-friendly casserole, easy weeknight dinner, ground beef casserole, comfort food, one-pan meal, quick casserole