Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) wafting through your home. This delightful dish combines layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy soup topped with gooey cheese—making it perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. With its minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping or taking it to a potluck, its satisfying taste will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple layering and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this dish with ease.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal family meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—this recipe allows for substitutions based on personal taste.
• Comforting Dish: Each bite is hearty and warming, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little comfort food.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for lunch or dinner the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Hobo Casserole successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: This size is ideal for even cooking and allows all layers to meld beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients easily, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Meat Layer

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Potato Layer

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

For the Creamy Layer

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk

For the Topping

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

How to Make Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the ground beef with chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

In your greased baking dish:
1. Spread half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
2. Evenly distribute the meat mixture over the potatoes.
3. Add another layer of remaining potato slices on top of the meat.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl:
1. Stir together the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth.
2. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer. Drizzle melted butter over the cheese for added richness.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy your delicious Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)! It’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Hobo Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or at a gathering, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal.

Individual Portions

• Serve in individual bowls for a cozy feel. This makes each serving special and easy to manage.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that complements the casserole.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole nicely.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside crusty bread. This is perfect for scooping up the casserole and adds a satisfying crunch.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy as leftovers for lunch. Simply reheat, and you have a quick and delicious meal ready to go!

How to Perfect Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

To make your Hobo Casserole truly stand out, follow these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ground beef will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Layer wisely: Alternate layers of potatoes and beef for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Adjust seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to personalize the taste.
• Cover while baking: Use aluminum foil during the first half of baking to keep moisture in, then remove it for browning.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes before serving so that it firms up, making it easier to cut into servings.

Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Pairing sides with Hobo Casserole can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crisp contrast to the casserole’s texture.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and flavor that complement the rich casserole.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the dish.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice that pairs well with savory casseroles.
5. Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, this side is creamy and delicious without being too heavy.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness works beautifully against the savory flavors of Hobo Casserole.
7. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, making your plate look inviting.
8. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a cool contrast and enhances your meal’s overall balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hobo Casserole is straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong meat: Ensure you use ground beef as specified in the recipe. Substituting with other meats can alter the flavor and texture.
• Overcooking potatoes: Thinly slice your potatoes for even cooking. Thick slices may remain undercooked while the rest of the casserole is done.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t neglect the spices! Seasoning your ground beef and layers is crucial for a flavorful dish.
• Not checking for doneness: Always check that your casserole is bubbly and golden brown before serving. This ensures everything is cooked properly.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good-quality cheese for better melting and flavor. Cheaper cheeses may not melt well or taste as good.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hobo Casserole in an airtight container.
• It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap; it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Hobo Casserole, here are some common questions:

What is Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)?

Hobo Casserole is a baked dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, creamy soup, and melted cheese. It’s hearty and satisfying!

How can I customize my Hobo Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses based on your preferences.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option while still keeping the essence of this delicious dish.

How long does it take to cook Hobo Casserole?

The total baking time is about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C), which includes layering the ingredients and allowing it to bake until bubbly.

Is Hobo Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Hobo Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort food to another level. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it ideal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Hobo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This hearty dish features layers of seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce topped with gooey melted cheese. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Not only is it delicious, but it also adapts well to various ingredients you may have on hand, making it a versatile option for any meal. Serve it hot, and enjoy the satisfying aroma that fills your home as it bakes to perfection!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
4. Spread the meat mixture over the potatoes and top with remaining potato slices.
5. In another bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with milk and pour over the layers.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and drizzle with melted butter.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg