Years ago I was in one of Helen’s kitchens looking through a Sarah Leah Chase cookbook when I came her Poverty Casserole. It is made of ingredients I usually have on hand, and the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and some heavy cream seem to bring it to a the next level. It also feeds a small army. I have brought this comforting meal to families with new babies, good news, bad news, or those who just need a night off. My sister Hilary has also delivered it throughout the Wenatchee region. I suggest adding this to your list of “good meals that freeze well and bring comfort”.
Lindsay
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large can (28-ounce) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons marjoram
- 8 whole sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 eggs
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Heat oil in large dutch oven. Add onion and garlic and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in beef and brown, breaking it up into pieces. Add sun-dried tomatoes, crushed tomatoes and seasonings. Simmer 15 minutes.
Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling water until al dente. Drain.
Whisk eggs and cream together. Toss drained pasta with eggs and cream. Add to the meat mixture and stir to combine thoroughly. Fold in 1 1/2 cups mozzarella. Top pasta with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, until brown and bubbling.
Spencer Family Cookbook 