Hobo Casserole

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This one-pot meal combines layers of seasoned ground beef with potatoes and cheese, making it a hearty choice that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

This Hobo Casserole is not only delicious but also practical for anyone looking to prepare a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an adaptable recipe that allows for substitutions based on what you have on hand. Additionally, it’s budget-friendly, requiring just a few simple ingredients. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to throw together, and the result will please even the pickiest of eaters.

How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Making Hobo Casserole is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps. The combination of flavors from the sautéed beef, soft potatoes, and melted cheese creates an irresistible dish that’s ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup beef broth or water

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft (3-4 minutes).
4. Spread the beef mixture in the baking dish. Layer thinly sliced potatoes on top, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
5. Sprinkle cheeses over the potatoes and pour beef broth around the edges.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Pro Tips for Success with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

1. Even Slices: Make sure to slice your potatoes evenly. This ensures that they cook uniformly and become tender at the same time.
2. Flavor Boost: Add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.
3. Beef Variations: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
4. Veggie Add-Ins: Feel free to include other vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
5. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky flavor.

Flavor Variations for Hobo Casserole

1. Mexican Style: Add taco seasoning to your beef and replace some of the cheese with queso blanco. Top with fresh cilantro before serving.
2. Italian Twist: Incorporate marinara sauce into the beef mixture and substitute mozzarella for cheddar cheese.
3. Comfort Classic: Stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup with the ground beef for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
4. Add a Crunch: Top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs before the final bake to create a delicious crunchy topping.

Serving Suggestions for Hobo Casserole

• Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with homemade garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce.
• Complement with a side of steamed vegetables to enhance the meal’s nutrition.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hobo Casserole

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover Hobo Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze it, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Component | Amount |
|—————-|———-|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 480mg |

FAQ About Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Can I use different types of meat in Hobo Casserole?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with other meats like turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives such as lentils or chickpeas. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially with leaner meats.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, you can use water or vegetable broth for a lighter taste. Alternatively, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can enhance the flavor.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

You can make your Hobo Casserole a bit healthier by using lean ground beef, adding more vegetables, and opting for low-fat cheese. Additionally, substituting sweet potatoes for regular potatoes can boost the nutritional value.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly, as it may take longer to cook if it’s cold from the fridge.

What are some great side dishes to serve with Hobo Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed greens for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the perfect comfort food recipe packed with flavors that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it an excellent choice for those nights when you want something hearty and delicious without much fuss. Try it out, and savor the goodness!

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