Hobo Casserole

Hobo casserole is like a warm hug in a dish—a fantastically easy and hearty meal that brings joy to any dinner table. I remember the first time I tried making it for my family; I was looking for something comforting after a long day. This dish checks all the boxes: a complete meal in one pot, minimal prep work, and it pleases even the pickiest eaters. When you layer creamy soups, ground beef, and tender potatoes, you create a comforting masterpiece that’s not just food—it’s an experience.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are plenty of reasons why hobo casserole deserves a place in your weekly rotation. First off, it’s incredibly budget-friendly: with just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feeds the whole family. It also scores high on the time-efficiency scale; you can prep and bake it all in less than an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is wholesome enough for the kids yet satisfying for adults.

"This recipe has been a lifesaver! It’s so easy to make, and my kids ask for it every week. It brings back memories of family dinners from my childhood."

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Creating your hobo casserole is as simple as layering your ingredients. Here’s a quick overview of the process: you’ll start by browning the beef, then layer it with sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and cheese before baking. It sounds straightforward—and it is—making it a perfect option for novice cooks or anyone looking for a fuss-free meal.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive in, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, sliced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers

Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even a meat substitute if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and add any optional vegetables like onions or bell peppers to enhance the flavor.
3. Grease a casserole dish and layer the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
4. Then add the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
5. Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the beef.
6. Sprinkle the can of diced tomatoes over everything, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheese on top.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Best Way to Serve

Hobo casserole shines on its own but can be enhanced with a few thoughtful presentations. Serve it alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness, or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can elevate each serving, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Tips

To make the most of your hobo casserole, proper storage is essential. Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, hobo casserole freezes exceptionally well—just make sure to label any containers with the date. When reheating, ensure the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are a few insider tips to elevate your casserole:

• Sauté Vegetables: If you throw in some diced onions or bell peppers, sauté them with the ground beef for deeper flavor.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack to give it a fun twist.
• Add Seasonings: Consider adding spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for extra depth!

Creative Twists

Want to switch it up? Here are a few ideas for variations on the classic hobo casserole:

• Southwestern Style: Add black beans and corn, and top with salsa for a southwestern flair.
• Cheesy Broccoli Addition: Stir in some steamed broccoli for added nutrition and color.
• Herbed Couscous Layer: For a different texture, swap out the potatoes for a layer of herbed couscous.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?

From prep to table, you can expect about an hour of cooking time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

Can I make hobo casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it beforehand, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is there a way to lighten this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute lean ground turkey for beef or use low-fat cream of mushroom soup to trim down the calories.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a family dinner, hobo casserole is a hearty dish that brings warmth, love, and satisfaction to the table. Give it a try and discover why this meal has become a treasured favorite!

Hobo Casserole

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• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Beef

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Description

A comforting one-pot meal featuring layers of ground beef, potatoes, and creamy soups—perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, sliced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and add any optional vegetables like onions or bell peppers.
3. Grease a casserole dish and layer the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
4. Add the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
5. Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the beef.
6. Sprinkle the can of diced tomatoes over everything, followed by a layer of shredded cheese on top.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with a green salad or crusty bread. A dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs enhances the dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, one pot meal, easy dinner, family recipe