Welcome to a classic that brings comfort to your table with an astonishingly simple yet flavorful approach. The hobo casserole with ground beef is a dish as humble as it is hearty. Bursting with flavors, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners when all you desire is a meal teeming with nostalgia and satisfaction. Let’s dive into this soul-warming recipe!
Ingredients
This hobo casserole brings together easily accessible ingredients to create a dish that everyone will love. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (about 20 oz) of frozen hash browns
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
Gather these kitchen essentials before you begin:
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as you go. This step is crucial for rendering the fat and adding flavor, while also ensuring the beef cooks evenly. Once browned, drain excess grease thoroughly, as you’ll want a lean base for your casserole.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Season
Continue by adding the chopped onion to the skillet, stirring occasionally until softened. Add the mixed vegetables, allowing them to thaw slightly in the heat. Season generously with salt and pepper. The mix of vegetables lends vibrant color and texture to your dish.
Step 3: Combine with Soup
Add the can of cream of mushroom soup to the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir it evenly through the mixture, making sure every component is well-coated. The soup acts as a creamy binder and adds depth to the flavor.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This creates a solid base for your hash browns to sit upon.
Step 5: Top with Hash Browns
Layer the frozen hash browns over the ground beef mixture. Spreading them thinly ensures even baking. This topping will become golden and crispy, acting as a delicious crust.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. The heat will meld flavors together, and the hash browns will crisp up beautifully, developing a deep flavor profile.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, returning it to the oven until the cheese melts completely – usually an extra 5–10 minutes. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, for a cheesy, crispy delight that everyone will adore.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Serve this hobo casserole as a standalone meal or pair it with a fresh salad for a satisfying balance. You can also enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy casserole goodness!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Consider adding your favorite spices or extras, like diced tomatoes or bell peppers, for an additional flavor punch. Swap in ground turkey or chicken as a lighter, equally delicious alternative to beef.
High-Protein Hobo Casserole Delight
Want to amp up the protein? Consider adding black beans or lentils to the mixture. These not only increase protein content but enhance texture and flavor. Top with extra cheese or even a sprinkle of crunchy nuts for added nutritional benefit.
Low-Carb Hobo Casserole Magic
Opting for a low-carb version? Replace hash browns with shredded zucchini or cauliflower rice. This substitution retains the essence of a classic casserole while keeping carbs in check. Pair it with a low-carb cheese and forgo any starchy vegetables.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until piping hot.
FAQs
- Can I freeze hobo casserole? Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly after cooling, and store up to three months.
- What other vegetables can I use? Broccoli, bell peppers, or even peas make excellent additions.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or extra veggies and legumes.
- Is there a gluten-free option? Use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Share Your Hobo Casserole Creations!
We hope you’ve enjoyed making and sharing this delectable hobo casserole with ground beef. Don’t forget to share your own versions and ideas in the comments, and spread the joy by sharing this recipe with fellow food enthusiasts. Enjoy, comment, and keep cooking!
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- onion
- frozen mixed vegetables
- cream of mushroom soup
- shredded cheddar cheese
- frozen hash browns
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then drain excess fat.
- Add onions and mixed vegetables; cook until the onions soften.
- Mix in cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Layer frozen hash browns over the beef mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 40 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cheese and bake until melted. Serve hot.