A budget-friendly dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor is a lifesaver for families striving to eat well without breaking the bank. Enter the poor man’s meal recipe, a delightful casserole that unites simplicity and nourishment. This dish uses common ingredients to create a hearty dinner that's sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
The term “poor man’s meal” harks back to the Great Depression, a time when every penny counted, and families found creative ways to feed their loved ones. Often featuring inexpensive meats, potatoes, and a savory sauce, this budget-friendly casserole remains popular today. Rich and filling, this meal is perfect for large families or anyone looking for affordable dinner ideas.
Essential Ingredients for Your Poor Man’s Meal
- Ground Beef: As a versatile staple, use 1 pound of either 80/20 or 90/10 lean ground beef. This is the backbone of your casserole, providing protein and flavor.
- Potatoes: Sliced russet or Yukon Gold potatoes add bulk and heartiness. These varieties are not only affordable but also have good shelf life.
- Onions: Yellow or white onions contribute robust flavor to the dish and pair perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: The star of this recipe, cream of mushroom soup delivers a rich, savory base. It’s a pantry essential that can elevate many dishes, making it ideal for cream of mushroom soup meals.
- Milk: Mixing 2% milk with the soup creates a creamy consistency that binds the ingredients together.
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley as a garnish not only adds color but brightens the entire dish with a hint of freshness.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease and season the meat with pepper and garlic powder for added flavor.
2. Layer the Ingredients
In a shallow 2-quart baking dish, layer the cooked ground beef with sliced potatoes and onions. This layering technique distributes flavors throughout the casserole.
3. Combine and Bake
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with milk and then pour this mixture over the layered ingredients. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Variations for Extra Flavor
The beauty of the poor man’s meal lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with
- Alternative Meats: Instead of ground beef, consider using sliced hot dogs or sausage for a different flavor profile without significantly increasing costs.
- Diced Potatoes: For a quicker cooking time, use diced rather than sliced potatoes. Check for tenderness after about 45 minutes.
- Different Soups: Switch up the flavor by substituting cream of celery, cream of broccoli, or even condensed cheddar cheese soup for a cheesy twist.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
When making a large batch, storing your leftover poor man’s meal is simple
- Refrigeration: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe baking dish. Once cooled, tightly cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place servings in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for about two minutes or until warmed through.
A significant benefit of this recipe is its ability to save both time and money while providing nutritious meals. Another favorite is the stovetop version of this budget-friendly casserole. Skip the oven altogether by sautéing the ground beef, potatoes, and onions together in a pan instead of baking in the oven. Serve with your choice of ketchup or tomato sauce for an uncomplicated yet satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
Complete your poor man’s meal recipe with a refreshing green salad drizzled with oil and vinegar. Quick and easy breadsticks are also a great side for soaking up any leftover sauce, rounding out the meal while keeping the budget in check.
In a world where keeping costs manageable is essential, this poor man’s meal recipe stands out as a go-to family favorite. It highlights that with a few affordable ingredients, you can create a delicious, filling meal that caters to the whole family’s tastes.