There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that brings together the heartiness of ground beef and the creamy delight of melted cheese. Our Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is the perfect comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s an uncomplicated, one-pot wonder that’s as delightful to cook as it is to eat. Read on to discover how to make this scrumptious dish, tips for perfect results, and fun variations to fit your dietary preferences!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Oven-safe casserole dish
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are ready. Dice the potatoes into small cubes for quicker cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepared and within arm’s reach makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent the casserole from being too greasy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef with diced potatoes, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until well combined and evenly coated with soup.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe casserole dish. Spread it evenly, then top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. This layer will create a deliciously melty and golden cheese crust when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
This casserole is a meal in itself. Serve it hot straight from the oven, perhaps accompanied by a simple leafy green salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mix before baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to alter the flavor profile. Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can increase the nutrition and add variety as well.
High Protein Delight: Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
If you’re aiming to boost the protein content, swap in leaner cuts of beef or add kidney beans for an extra protein punch. This casserole can be your go-to meal after a vigorous workout or as a hearty dinner to fuel your body.
Low Carb Magic: A Keto Take on Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
For those watching their carbs, trade the potatoes with cauliflower florets. This substitute not only lowers the carbs but also soaks up flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Embrace herbs like rosemary and thyme for depth and complexity without adding carbs.
Storage Instructions
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes well. Portion it into individual servings before freezing for easy reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use other meats? Yes, ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives.
- How can I make it spicy? Adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes will enhance the heat level.
- What if I don’t have cheddar cheese soup? You can use cream of mushroom or any other creamy soup as a substitute.
- Is it gluten-free? If you use a gluten-free soup, then yes, it will be gluten-free.
- Can I add other veggies? Absolutely, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms are excellent additions.
Savor the Last Crumb – Share Your Experience!
Our Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a cornerstone of comfort cooking – simple, delicious, and heartwarming! Whether you’re tweaking it to fit dietary needs or enjoying it as is, we love to see how it turns out for you. Feel free to share your culinary creations and any personal twists in the comments below. Don’t forget to hit that share button so others can discover this delightful dish!
Cheesy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- shredded cheddar cheese
- diced potatoes
- onion
- garlic
- condensed cheddar cheese soup
- Salt and pepper
- olive oil
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef, diced potatoes, cheddar cheese soup, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 45 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown.