Savory Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes

Introduction

Savory hobo casserole is a dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. With its hearty combination of ground beef and tender potatoes, it’s a meal that warms the soul.

This one-dish wonder is not only easy to prepare but also highly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this casserole fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Mix until the potatoes and vegetables are evenly coated.
6. Add the cooked beef and onion mixture to the bowl with the potatoes and mix until well incorporated.
7. Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
9. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
10. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.

FAQs

What kind of ground beef should I use for hobo casserole?

You can use any ground beef, but lean ground beef (like 80/20) works well to reduce excess grease.

Can I add different vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added flavor.

What if my casserole is too watery after baking?

If it’s too watery, you can bake it uncovered for a few more minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick.

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce instead.

What if I want to scale this recipe for a larger group?

You can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, increasing the baking time slightly if necessary.

How can I tell if the potatoes are fully cooked?

You can check the potatoes by inserting a fork; it should easily pierce through without resistance.

What type of cheese works best in this casserole?

Cheddar cheese is traditional, but you can also use Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Savory hobo casserole is a meal that’s not only satisfying but also encourages creativity in the kitchen. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a dish that can easily become a family favorite.

Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as leftovers the next day. This casserole is sure to delight anyone who tries it, making it a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

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Savory Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes

Savory Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes sliced
• 1 medium onion diced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
• Stir in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine all the flavors.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Mix until the potatoes and vegetables are evenly coated.
• Add the cooked beef and onion mixture to the bowl with the potatoes and mix until well incorporated.
• Transfer the entire mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
• After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.