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Hobo Casserole
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about hobo casserole. This dish takes me back to cozy family gatherings and potlucks where everyone brought their best comfort food. At its core, hobo casserole is a hearty, layered dish featuring ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with melted cheese. It’s perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re craving a satisfying meal without too much fuss. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this recipe delivers flavors that everyone will love.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
What sets hobo casserole apart is its simplicity and heartiness. Not only is it easy on the wallet, but it also appeals to kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Plus, you’re likely to have most of the ingredients on hand, making it a reliable option for last-minute cooking.
"This casserole reminds me of home—simple ingredients, but packed with flavor. My kids devour it every single time!" – A happy home cook.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It
Making hobo casserole is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced culinary skills. You’ll start by browning the beef and onions, followed by layering your ingredients in a baking dish. It’s a one-pan wonder that keeps clean-up simple and gets dinner on the table with minimal effort.
Gather Your Ingredients
To whip up this comforting dish, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different twist or use any cheese you enjoy.
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Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the beef layer to ensure every bite is creamy and flavorful.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Perfect Pairings for Hobo Casserole
Hobo casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking for ways to elevate your dining experience, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or some steamed broccoli for a touch of greenery. A side of garlic bread can also complement the dish beautifully, adding a nice crunch to your meal.
Best Way to Store Hobo Casserole
To help keep your hobo casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Helpful Hints
For best results, slice your potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or green beans to the layers for added nutrition and flavor. If you love a little kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or using pepper jack cheese.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment! You can use different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, or replace the cream of mushroom with a different soup variety like cream of celery. Adding different toppings, such as crispy bacon or fried onions, can also give a fun twist to the traditional recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 1 hour.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses can work well in this recipe. Just go with your personal preference!
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes, it’s safe to freeze leftovers in airtight containers. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) before serving again.
By integrating these ideas and instructions, you’ll find that hobo casserole is not just a recipe—it’s a comforting, filling meal that holds a special place in many hearts. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bring a little nostalgia to your dinner table!
Print
Hobo Casserole
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty, layered dish featuring ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with melted cheese—perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked, draining any excess fat.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the beef layer.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat to 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: comfort food, casserole, hobo casserole, family dinner, easy recipes



