Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal that pleases the whole family? The Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is the perfect answer. This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheddar cheese in a creamy mushroom sauce. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit.

What is Hobo Casserole?

Hobo Casserole is a classic American dish that has been a go-to for home cooks for years. The term “hobo” traditionally evokes simplicity and thriftiness, and this casserole is no different. It’s a one-dish meal that brings together inexpensive ingredients to create something delicious and filling. Typically, Hobo Casserole includes ground beef, potatoes, canned soup, and cheese. It’s a great way to stretch a pound of ground beef and feed several people without breaking the bank.

Key Ingredients in Hobo Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and why they make this dish irresistible:

• Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish, providing hearty flavor and texture.
• Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes add bulk and turn this casserole into a filling meal.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy, condensed soup serves as the base for the casserole’s sauce, binding everything together.
• Milk: Adding a bit of milk to the soup mixture lightens the sauce and helps it spread more evenly throughout the dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheese is essential for adding richness and a melty, bubbly topping.
• Onion: The diced onion adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor of the beef.
• Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Skillet: For browning the ground beef and onions.
• Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works well for this recipe.
• Cutting Board and Knife: You’ll need these to slice the potatoes and dice the onions.
• Mixing Bowl: To mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk together.

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients are simple and easy to find in any grocery store, making this recipe even more accessible. You can also switch things up based on what you have on hand (more on that later!).

this RECIPE

How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a flawless casserole every time:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture: Stir in the thinly sliced potatoes, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are starting to become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the skillet mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden brown crust, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Cooking the Perfect Casserole

• Don’t slice the potatoes too thick: Thin slices (about 1/8-inch) ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and become tender during baking. Thick slices may take longer to cook, leading to uneven results.
• Watch the cheese: If you like a crispy cheese topping, let it bake for the full 25 minutes and finish with a few minutes under the broiler.
• Season properly: Since the condensed soup contains salt, taste the beef and potato mixture before adding extra salt. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to avoid an overly salty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: Ground beef cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it while browning. Overcooking can make it tough and dry.
• Not cooking the potatoes thoroughly: Simmering the potatoes before baking ensures that they are tender when the casserole comes out of the oven.
• Using too much liquid: Stick to the recommended 1/2 cup of milk to maintain the right consistency. Too much liquid will make the casserole soupy.

Presentation and Serving Ideas

To elevate the look of your Hobo Casserole, consider these presentation tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Layer It: When serving, carefully scoop portions to showcase the layers of creamy potatoes, beef, and melted cheese.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Hobo Casserole is great for leftovers. To store:

• Refrigerator: Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can also freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

To reheat:

• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Oven: Place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Hobo Casserole Variations

Want to mix it up? Here are some variations you can try:

• Swap the Beef: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some frozen peas, corn, or sliced carrots to add extra nutrients and color to the dish.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique twist.

FAQ: Common Questions About Hobo Casserole

• Can I make Hobo Casserole ahead of time?
  Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold when it goes into the oven.
• Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?
  Absolutely! You can sauté fresh mushrooms in butter and mix them with heavy cream or homemade cream sauce for a more gourmet version.
• How can I make this dish gluten-free?
  Simply use a gluten-free condensed soup or make your own gluten-free cream sauce.

conclusion

The Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a simple, affordable, and delicious way to feed your family. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. If you love this recipe, share it with friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more quick and tasty meal ideas!

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