Hobo Casserole Ground Beef: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef: the ultimate comfort food that’s as delicious as it is easy to make! Are you craving a hearty, satisfying meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup? Then look no further! This one-dish wonder is about to become your new weeknight staple. Imagine tender ground beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and creamy potatoes all baked together in a flavorful sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

While the exact origins of Hobo Casserole are shrouded in a bit of mystery, its name evokes images of resourceful travelers creating a nourishing meal with whatever ingredients they could find. This spirit of simplicity and adaptability is at the heart of what makes this dish so appealing. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create something truly special.

People adore Hobo Casserole Ground Beef because it’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and utterly delicious. The combination of savory ground beef, soft potatoes, and your favorite vegetables creates a comforting and satisfying experience. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! You’re about to discover why this classic casserole has stood the test of time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: Sour cream, for topping
• Optional: Chopped green onions, for topping

Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture

1. First, let’s brown the ground beef. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, usually about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!
2. Next, add the aromatics. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The smell alone is going to make your mouth water!
3. Now, it’s time for the bell pepper. Add the chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the pepper is slightly softened. We want a little bit of bite left in the pepper.
4. Stir in the canned goods. Add the undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed and drained kidney beans, and drained corn to the skillet. Stir everything together well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Add the flavor boosters. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, chili powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This is where the magic happens!
6. Simmer the mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step, so don’t forget it!
2. Prepare the baking dish. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the bottom.
3. Pour the mixture into the dish. Pour the ground beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out so it’s nice and even.
4. Top with cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the ground beef mixture. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
5. Bake the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. Keep an eye on it to make sure the cheese doesn’t burn.
6. Let it rest. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up a bit and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve it hot. Serve the Hobo Casserole hot, straight from the oven.
2. Add toppings. Top with a dollop of sour cream and some chopped green onions, if desired. These toppings add a nice coolness and freshness to the dish.
3. Pair it with sides. This casserole is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.
4. Storage. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips and Variations

• Use different ground meat. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.
• Add more vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture.
• Spice it up. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Use different beans. You can substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans.
• Make it vegetarian. Omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also use a plant-based ground meat substitute.
• Add a layer of tater tots. For an extra indulgent casserole, top the ground beef mixture with a layer of tater tots before baking.
• Use different cheese. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
• Make it ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze the casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. You can also bake it from frozen, but it will take longer (about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes).
• Adjust seasoning to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking. Taste the mixture before adding it to the baking dish and make any necessary adjustments.
• Use fresh herbs. If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as parsley or thyme, add them to the mixture for extra flavor.
• Make it in a slow cooker. You can also make this casserole in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Top with cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Protein: 25-35 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

Why This Recipe Works

This Hobo Casserole recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and satisfying. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and customize it to your family’s preferences. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, beans, and cheese creates a hearty and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Troubleshooting

• Casserole is too dry: Add a little bit of beef broth or tomato sauce to the mixture before baking.
• Casserole is too watery: Make sure to drain the ground beef well after browning. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture to help thicken it.
• Cheese is not melting properly: Make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature. You can also broil the casserole for a minute or two at the end of baking to help melt the cheese. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
• Casserole is not cooked through: Make sure the oven temperature is accurate. If the casserole is browning too quickly on top, cover it with aluminum foil and continue baking until it’s heated through.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Colander (for rinsing beans and corn)

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting classic reimagined for the modern kitchen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy dinner solution. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager to dig in and share stories.

Why is it a must-try? Because it’s ridiculously simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Because it’s endlessly customizable, allowing you to adapt it to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. And most importantly, because it tastes absolutely fantastic! The combination of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

But don’t just take my word for it! I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The beauty of this Hobo Casserole is its versatility. Serve it as is for a complete and satisfying meal, or pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce.

Here are a few variations to spark your creativity:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a little kick.
* Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat alternatives.
* Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese over the casserole during the last few minutes of baking for a melty, cheesy topping.
* Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the mix.
* Creamy delight: For an extra creamy casserole, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce before baking.
* Potato Power: Instead of using canned potatoes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just make sure to dice them into small pieces and parboil them before adding them to the casserole. This will ensure they are cooked through and tender.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

I’m confident that this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a comforting meal to share with loved ones.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this Hobo Casserole Ground Beef recipe as much as I do.

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