Looking for a warm, hearty, and fuss-free dinner idea? This Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is your new go-to. It’s a comforting blend of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all baked together to create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Whether you’re aiming for a quick dinner option, a budget-friendly meal, or a dish that can feed the whole family with minimal effort, this casserole hits all the marks.
This recipe is designed for busy weeknights, offering a simple way to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for the chillier months, this hobo casserole provides warmth and sustenance, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s versatile enough for customizations, so you can tailor it to your family’s tastes and preferences.
The appeal of this recipe lies not just in its delicious flavors, but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a slice of this delectable Ground Beef Hobo Casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
- Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for cold nights or when you need a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep work means more time to enjoy with family.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
- One-Dish Meal: Easy clean-up as everything cooks in just one casserole dish.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or alter seasonings to suit your taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you get cooking, a little preparation will go a long way in ensuring your Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a success. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all the ingredients and equipment you will need: a large skillet for browning the beef, a mixing bowl for combining the mushroom soup and milk, and a 9×13-inch baking dish. It’s wise to have a sharp knife and cutting board handy for slicing the potatoes and dicing the onion, as well as some measuring cups for accuracy. Make sure to grease your baking dish lightly with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. This dish is straightforward, but being organized will help streamline the cooking process, making your experience in the kitchen as enjoyable as the meal itself.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon gold or russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial as it allows the casserole to cook evenly and helps in achieving that perfect golden, bubbling cheese topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Next, take your Yukon gold or russet potatoes and peel them. Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly. While you’re working on the potatoes, go ahead and dice the onion and shred the cheddar cheese if it’s not pre-shredded. Having all your ingredients prepped will make assembling the casserole a breeze.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add the ground beef and diced onion. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step. This mixture will be the flavorful foundation of your casserole.
Step 4: Mix the Soup and Milk
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Whisk these together until you achieve a smooth consistency. This creamy mixture will bind the casserole together while adding delicious flavor.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of the soup mixture on the bottom of the dish—this prevents sticking and keeps the casserole moist. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly over the soup, then add half of the ground beef mixture, followed by another layer of the soup mixture. Repeat this layering process with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a topping of shredded cheddar cheese to create that irresistible, bubbly crust.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish securely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The covering helps to steam the potato layers, ensuring they cook thoroughly. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This allows the cheese on top to become golden and beautifully bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
Step 7: Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Variations
- Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices such as Italian seasoning, cumin, or chili powder for a unique twist.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the potatoes are sliced thinly for even cooking and to achieve a tender texture.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add more cream of mushroom soup or a dash of sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips
- Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 680mg
FAQs
Can I use instant potatoes in this recipe?
While traditional sliced potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use instant potatoes as a substitute. Just prepare the instant potatoes according to the package instructions and layer them as you would fresh potatoes.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Can I freeze hobo casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just assemble it as usual, then cover tightly before freezing. To bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding shredded cheese layers between the potato and beef layers, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for an added depth of flavor.
Conclusion
The Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort in every bite. With a few budget-friendly ingredients and just one baking dish, you can bring this heartwarming meal to your table in under 75 minutes. It’s an excellent choice for feeding a hungry family, and with its endless variations, you’ll never tire of this dish. We invite you to try it out, share your experience and thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore your own twists on this cozy casserole. Happy cooking!
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Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that combines seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, and melty cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium Yukon gold or russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep the potatoes by peeling and slicing them thinly.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion and seasonings.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup and milk in a bowl.
- Layer soup, potatoes, beef, and cheese in a greased baking dish.
- Cover and bake for 45-50 minutes, remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
- Let it rest before serving, and garnish if desired.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Protein: 25 g