Delicious Hobo Casserole
Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)
Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the delicious flavors of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender potatoes. This one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights, providing both satisfaction and nourishment for the entire family. With its layered ingredients baked to perfection, Hobo Casserole is not only simple to prepare, but it also offers a delightful home-cooked experience.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a must-try for several reasons. Firstly, it is incredibly filling, making it ideal for feeding a large family or group of friends. Secondly, the combination of ground beef and potatoes creates a wonderful, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Additionally, this dish is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite seasonings or vegetables. Lastly, it’s a great way to use leftovers, making it economical and practical for everyday cooking.
How to Make Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)
Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious Hobo Casserole that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture.
- Grease a baking dish with butter and start layering the ingredients: first, add half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the beef mixture.
- Pour half of the cream of mushroom soup over the layers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and mushroom soup.
- In a small bowl, mix the milk with the remaining ingredients: cheddar cheese and paprika (if using).
- Pour the milk and cheese mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)
Once your Hobo Casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Then, serve it warm straight from the dish. For added flair, you can garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese. Pair it with a simple green salad or bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions for up to 2-3 months.
Tips to Make Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)
- Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas, between the layers.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for varied flavors.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup.
- Different Soups: Swap out the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or broccoli cheese soup for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen hash browns or shredded potatoes can be used as a convenient option. Just adjust the baking time as needed. -
Is there a gluten-free variation?
Yes, ensure you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your cheese is gluten-free. -
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Hobo Casserole is a satisfying, versatile dish that anyone can make. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy the warm, delightful experience of this classic recipe.
Hobo Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture.
- Grease a baking dish with butter and start layering the ingredients: first, add half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the beef mixture.
- Pour half of the cream of mushroom soup over the layers.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and mushroom soup.
- In a small bowl, mix the milk with the cheddar cheese and paprika (if using).
- Pour the milk and cheese mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
