Discover the Ultimate Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

Are you craving a delicious, easy-to-make casserole that the whole family will love? Look no further than the classic Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef! This comforting dish is packed with savory flavors, tender potatoes, and melted cheese – it’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Table of Contents

What is Hobo Casserole?

Hobo Casserole, also known as Hamburger Potato Casserole, is a beloved one-dish meal that originated from the Great Depression era. The name “hobo” refers to the simplicity and thriftiness of the recipe, as it utilizes affordable, basic ingredients that can be easily assembled and baked to perfection. This hearty casserole has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in households across America for its unbeatable flavor and family-friendly appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef! First and foremost, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up.

But the best part? This casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a neighborhood gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The hearty, satisfying flavors make it a true comfort food classic.

Ingredients for Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup French fried onions (for topping)
• Sliced green onions or chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Insights

The key to a delicious Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef lies in the high-quality, fresh ingredients. Be sure to use lean ground beef to keep the dish from feeling too heavy. The Russet potatoes are a must, as their starchy and tender texture is perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors. And don’t forget the creamy mushroom soup and sour cream – they create a luscious, tangy sauce that ties the entire casserole together.

How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Prepping the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Then, in a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 7-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until browned. Drain any excess grease, then add the diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Creating the Casserole Layers

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Spoon the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the potato layer. If needed, add the remaining potato slices on top.

Pour the creamy mushroom sauce over the potatoes and beef, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Baking the Casserole

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil, then sprinkle the French fried onions over the top of the casserole.

Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.

Allow the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley, if desired. Enjoy this comforting and delicious casserole with your family and friends!

Tips for Perfecting Your Hobo Casserole

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your tastes. Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey or Italian sausage. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for a Mexican cheese blend or Monterey Jack.

If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, try adding diced carrots, sliced mushrooms, or frozen peas to the beef and vegetable mixture. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a complete meal on its own, but you can always serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a well-rounded dinner. Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make a delicious accompaniment.

As for leftovers, this casserole reheats beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly.

Nutritional Information for Hobo Casserole

One serving of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef (approximately 1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g

To make this dish a bit healthier, you can use reduced-fat or low-fat versions of the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. You can also substitute some of the cheddar cheese with a lighter cheese option, such as part-skim mozzarella.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
• Cheesy Beef Rigatoni Bake
• One-Pan Cheesy Meat and Potato Skillet
• BBQ Ranch Ground Beef Casserole

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I adjust the spice level in Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef?

To adjust the spice level in Hobo Casserole, you can incorporate a variety of ingredients. For a milder flavor, use sweet bell peppers and omit any spicy elements. If you prefer a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef while cooking. You can also spice up the cream of mushroom soup by mixing in some cayenne pepper or using a spicy cheese blend. Start with small amounts, taste as you go, and adjust according to your preference.

Can I use different types of cheese in Hobo Casserole?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a popular choice for Hobo Casserole, you can experiment with other cheese varieties to enhance the flavor. Try using Monterey Jack for a creamier texture, pepper jack for some heat, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer taste. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly, so choose cheeses that melt well for the best results.

What can I do if my casserole is too dry after baking?

If your Hobo Casserole is too dry after baking, there are a few strategies to improve its moisture. First, you can add a splash of beef broth or additional cream of mushroom soup before serving to rehydrate the dish. Another option is to cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the last part of baking to trap moisture. For future preparations, ensure that you’re using enough sauce or liquid and consider layering with more vegetables, as they release moisture during cooking.

How long can I leave Hobo Casserole in the oven to keep it warm without overcooking?

To keep your Hobo Casserole warm without overcooking, set your oven to a low temperature of around 200°F (93°C). You can keep it in the oven for up to an hour without compromising the texture or flavor significantly. Make sure to cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out. If you need to hold it longer than that, it’s best to remove it from the oven and cover it with a lid or foil until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef! This hearty, satisfying dish is sure to become a new family favorite. With its irresistible flavors, easy prep, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy, comforting casserole that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Print