Introduction
Hobo casserole is a comforting dish that brings together hearty ingredients in a single pan, making it a favorite for busy home cooks. This recipe features ground beef and potatoes, two staples that combine beautifully to create a satisfying meal.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, hobo casserole showcases the simplicity of home cooking. With its savory flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the diced potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and stir until the mixture is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the beef and potato mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious hobo casserole!
FAQs
What if my potatoes are too hard after baking?
If the potatoes are still hard, cover the casserole and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help them cook through.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or green beans, for added flavor and nutrition.
What should I do if my casserole is too dry?
If you find your casserole is dry, try adding a little more cream of mushroom soup or a splash of beef broth before baking.
Can I make this with turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be a great substitute for ground beef, offering a lighter flavor while still providing protein.
What if my casserole is bland?
If your casserole lacks flavor, consider increasing the seasoning, such as adding more garlic powder or salt, to suit your taste.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture before baking.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted, adding a different flavor profile and sweetness to the dish.
What if I want to make a smaller portion?
You can easily halve the recipe and use a smaller baking dish for an equally delicious smaller casserole.
Conclusion
This hobo casserole recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. The combination of ground beef and potatoes creates a hearty meal that satisfies hunger without requiring extensive cooking time.
Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!
Recipe Card
Delicious Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes diced
- 1 large onion chopped
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the diced potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and stir until the mixture is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the beef and potato mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious hobo casserole!
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.
