Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Dish

Nothing comforts like a bubbling casserole filled with ground beef tender potatoes and rich creamy cheese. Hobo Casserole is a clever way to stretch pantry ingredients into a savory meal that everyone crowds around for. My family loves how simple this is to assemble and how it always comes out hearty and satisfying.

I first tried this casserole on a chilly evening when we needed something cozy fast. It quickly became a frequent favorite for both its ease and the way it fills the kitchen with classic homey aromas.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef if you want less grease and more meaty flavor
• Onion: Adds savory depth and sweetens as it bakes Look for firm onions with papery skins
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Extra layers of classic flavor Use fresh spices for best results
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the meat Fully brings out the flavors
• Potatoes: Russets or Yukon Golds work best for soft creamy slices Pick firm potatoes with no green spots
• Cream of mushroom soup: Makes the casserole rich and creamy Go for low sodium if desired
• Milk: Thins out the soup to create a luxurious sauce Use whole milk for extra creaminess
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for gooey goodness Freshly grated cheese melts best
• Paprika: Adds color and subtle warmth Optional but looks wonderful sprinkled on top
• Butter: Drizzled for richness and helps brown the cheese Use real butter for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Peel and slice potatoes into thin even rounds The thinner the slices the quicker they cook A mandoline makes this step quick and even Preheat your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking

Cook the Ground Beef:

Place ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet Set heat to medium and cook stirring often until beef is browned and onions are soft about five to seven minutes Drain any extra grease Sprinkle with garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Stir again to blend all the seasonings thoroughly

Assemble the Casserole:

Layer half of the potato slices in an even layer over the bottom of your greased baking dish Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes Repeat layering with remaining potatoes and beef mixture so you have two layers of each

Make the Creamy Sauce:

In a small bowl stir together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth Pour this sauce evenly over the layered casserole Tuck the spoon into the corners and press gently to help the sauce reach all the way through

Add the Cheese and Bake:

Scatter shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top Drizzle melted butter over the cheese to boost browning and richness Cover with aluminum foil and bake for forty five minutes Uncover and bake another fifteen minutes until bubbly and golden

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove casserole from oven and let rest for five to ten minutes before scooping This allows the layers to set for easier serving Sprinkle with paprika if desired then dish up generous portions and enjoy every creamy cheesy bite

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Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days Individual portions reheat best in a microwave Add a splash of milk if it seems dry To freeze wrap tightly and freeze up to two months Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef and use low fat condensed soup Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella If you run out of potatoes use a layer of thin sliced sweet potatoes or even parboiled cauliflower florets

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad to balance the richness Warm dinner rolls are a perfect companion so you can scoop up every bit of creamy sauce My kids love a dollop of ketchup alongside for dipping

Cultural Context

The Hobo Casserole echoes Depression era cooking when stretching simple ingredients into filling meals was a kitchen triumph It reflects the resourcefulness and creativity of home cooks feeding large families with whatever was on hand The name reminds us that great food does not require fancy ingredients just care and tradition

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use another type of soup besides cream of mushroom?

Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery work nicely. Homemade white sauce with sautéed onions or mushrooms can also be used.

→ What cheese works best for this dish?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even Pepper Jack provide tasty variations. Mixing cheeses adds extra flavor.

→ How do I prevent potatoes from undercooking?

Slice potatoes thinly and evenly. Using a mandoline helps. Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to ensure tenderness.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, then bake when ready. Store covered in the refrigerator until baking.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly before freezing. Reheat in the oven for best texture and flavor.