If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that brings a blend of flavors loved by all ages, the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe is your new go-to. This dish combines tender ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and a colorful medley of vegetables all nestled under a golden blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect balance of textures and tastes that come together into a satisfying, easy-to-make casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this recipe is both straightforward and satisfying. Each component plays a key role in delivering taste, texture, and vibrant color to this classic casserole, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced): These add a soft, creamy texture and help soak up all the savory juices.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Provides a natural sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.): Adds color, nutrition, and a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup): This creamy binder creates a luscious sauce that holds everything together.
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water): Keeps the casserole moist and juicy during baking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes and adds a subtle punch.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor for extra depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a fragrant herbal lift to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and brighten all the flavors.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The golden, melted topping that completes this comforting casserole.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then add chopped onions, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onions are tender and fragrant, which will infuse the beef mixture with layers of delicious flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes and Vegetables
Thinly slice the peeled potatoes and arrange half of them evenly at the bottom of your casserole dish. Sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables over the potatoes for a colorful base packed with nutrients. These layers create a satisfying texture contrast between soft potatoes and crisp-tender veggies.
Step 3: Combine Soup and Broth
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the beef broth until smooth. This creamy mixture will soak into the beef and vegetable layers, binding everything together while adding moisture and richness. Pour half of this soup mixture over the potatoes and vegetables, spreading it gently to cover.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Add the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the first layer, pressing it down lightly. Then layer the remaining potatoes and pour the rest of the soup mixture over the top until everything is evenly coated. This layered approach ensures every bite has the perfect combination of beef, veggies, and creamy goodness.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layered ingredients. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining cup of cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can give it a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans brings freshness and balance to the plate. A warm crusty bread or garlic bread on the side can also soak up any leftover sauce and make the meal feel even more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style gathering, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet to keep it warm and rustic. Alternatively, you can portion it into individual ramekins for a charming presentation that makes everyone feel special. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa on each serving can add an exciting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe cools, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, often tasting even better the next day, making it a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover it with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake it covered from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated all the way through, then uncover and add cheese for the final melt and golden finish.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 20–30 minutes. To keep the cheese topping from drying out, you can cover the dish loosely with foil during reheating. Alternatively, individual portions reheat well in the microwave in shorter bursts to avoid rubbery meat.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Keep in mind this might change the flavor slightly, but the casserole will remain delicious.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes helps them cook more evenly and provides a smooth texture, but if you like added texture and nutrients, you can leave the skins on after thoroughly washing.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can swap it with cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade creamy sauce using flour, butter, and milk. This will keep the dish moist and flavorful.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans can be great additions. Just be mindful of moisture content and cook time to keep the casserole balanced.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soup options or make your own roux for the creamy sauce. Also, double-check that your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free to keep the casserole safe for those with sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe enough for anyone craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that feeds the whole family. It’s straightforward, adaptable, and always satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a cherished favorite to revisit time and again.
Print
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Hobo Casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, potatoes, mixed vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a family dinner and requires just one baking dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
Liquids and Soups
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Prepare the Mixture: Add the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef and onion mixture. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Spread half of the beef and vegetable mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat with another layer of the remaining potatoes, the rest of the beef mixture, and finish with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any day of the week.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom if preferred.
- Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can provide additional flavor and nutrition.
- For a thicker casserole, reduce the amount of beef broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Use low-fat cheese and lean ground beef for a lighter version.
