Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Combining layers of seasoned ground beef, crispy potatoes, melted cheese, and creamy sauce, this casserole is easy to make and packed with rich, comforting flavors. Inspired by traditional “hobo meals,” which often include meat, potatoes, and vegetables cooked together, this casserole is an upgraded version that’s simple, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef:

• Simple ingredients: This recipe uses everyday pantry staples, making it budget-friendly and accessible.
• Comfort food at its best: The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese is as comforting as it gets.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful and filling dish.
• Versatile: You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Make-ahead option: Assemble it in advance and bake when you’re ready for a no-fuss dinner.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving size: 1 generous slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Hobo Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef (lean or 80/20, depending on your preference)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil (for greasing the pan)
• Chopped parsley or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ground beef mixture:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set aside.

2. Mix the creamy sauce:

In a small bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk until smooth. This sauce will keep the casserole moist and add a creamy texture.

3. Prepare the potatoes:

Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick) for even cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent slices if you have one.

4. Assemble the casserole:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Begin layering the ingredients:

• Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them.
• Add half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
• Pour half of the creamy sauce over the beef.
• Sprinkle 3/4 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the sauce.
• Repeat the layers (potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese) with the remaining ingredients.

5. Bake the casserole:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and the edges to crisp up.

6. Let it rest and serve:

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color before serving.

Ingredient Background

• Ground beef: A staple in many comfort foods, ground beef is both affordable and flavorful. For a leaner option, choose ground turkey or chicken.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps create a hearty base. Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option for a slightly buttery flavor.
• Cream of mushroom soup: This canned soup provides a creamy consistency and savory flavor. You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even make your own homemade cream sauce.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a kick.

Technique Tips

• Thin potato slices: Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavors. If the slices are too thick, they may remain undercooked.
• Season each layer: To maximize flavor, sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over each potato layer.
• Cover while baking: Covering the casserole with foil for the first part of baking traps steam, ensuring the potatoes cook through. Removing the foil later allows the top to brown.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual ramekins: Prepare and bake the casserole in small ramekins for personalized portions, perfect for dinner parties.
• Skillet version: Assemble and bake the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation.
• Layered dish: Use a clear glass baking dish to showcase the beautiful layers of potatoes, beef, and cheese.

Additional Tips for Success

• Pre-cook the potatoes: If you’re short on time, parboil the potato slices for 5-7 minutes before layering them in the casserole.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
• Double the recipe: This casserole freezes well, so consider making a double batch to save one for later.

Recipe Variations

• Mexican-style: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for salsa, use taco seasoning instead of paprika, and add black beans or corn. Top with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.
• Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat.
• Breakfast casserole: Add scrambled eggs, diced bacon, or breakfast sausage to make this a hearty morning meal.
• Cheesy overload: Use a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella, parmesan, and gouda, for extra indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Freezing: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
• Reheating tips: For the best results, reheat the casserole in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain its texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Swap the soup: Make a homemade sauce using Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, and flour for a lighter version.
• Use lean meat: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken.
• Reduce the cheese: Cut back on the cheese or use a reduced-fat version to lower calories and fat content.
• Add greens: Incorporate layers of spinach or kale for extra vitamins and fiber.
• Sweet potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a nutrient-rich alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family dinner: Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Potluck favorite: Bring this casserole to a potluck—it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Holiday gatherings: Add it to your holiday dinner spread as a comforting side dish.
• Game day: Pair the casserole with chips, salsa, and a veggie platter for a fun and hearty spread.

Special Equipment

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures consistent, thin potato slices.
• Large skillet: For browning the ground beef mixture evenly.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal for layering the casserole.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth sauce without lumps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen hash browns or potato slices can be used as a time-saving alternative. Just thaw them before assembling the casserole.

2. How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
Ensure you have enough sauce to cover the layers, and don’t skimp on the cheese, which adds moisture. Baking covered for the first 35 minutes also helps.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cream soup substitute, plant-based milk, and dairy-free cheese.

4. Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
Yes, choose a gluten-free cream soup or make your own using gluten-free flour. Also, confirm that your other ingredients, like cheese, are gluten-free.

5. Can I add more layers?
Certainly! Add more layers of potatoes, beef, or vegetables to create a taller casserole. Adjust the baking time as needed.

6. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A homemade béchamel sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings is a great substitute. Cream of chicken soup also works well.

7. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

8. How do I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or gatherings with friends, this recipe is versatile, easy to customize, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. With its layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today for a comforting meal that will leave you and your loved ones asking for seconds!

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