The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Are you searching for a comforting meal that is budget-friendly, easy to make, and loved by all in the family? This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is the answer!

Filled with the flavours of ground beef, creamy potatoes, and cheesy goodness, this one-dish wonder is perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend.

Keep reading for the ultimate recipe, including tips, variations, and everything you need to make this a winner at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Budget Friendly: The casserole costs little to make because its main ingredients–ground beef, potatoes, and canned soup–are inexpensive.

Easy to Make: With just a few minutes of preparation and throwing everything in one pan, this recipe is excellent for beginners and busy cooks alike.

Family-Friendly: Its hearty and comforting flavours appeal to kids and adults alike.

Customizable: Mix it up with your favourite veggies, cheeses, and spices.

Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavour)

4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced

1 medium onion, diced

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup milk

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Add in the ground beef, breaking it down with a spatula, and cook until brown (about 5-7 minutes). Drain the excess fat.

Whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, the milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until everything is well combined.

In a well-greased 9×13-inch glass pan, layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the ground beef mixture and half of the frozen vegetables.

Drizzle half the sauce over all of this. Repeat layering with all the remaining ingredients.

Add shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Cover with a layer of foil and cook for 45 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, until the potato is fork-tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with slivers of fresh parsley.

Tips

Slice Thinly: Slice the potatoes as thinly as possible, preferably with a mandoline, to guarantee even cooking.

Season generously: This is better done while tasting the beef mixture just before layering because much can depend on how much salt and pepper should be adjusted.

Prevent Sogginess: To prevent sogginess, drain the ground beef so that no extra grease is present.

Cheese Options: Try using mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend to give different flavours.

Make it Quick: Cut down on cooking time by parboiling the potato slices for 5 minutes before layering.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat substitutions: From the ground beef, try changing flavours by introducing ground turkey or chicken, even sausage will give you a pretty good taste.

Vegetarian options: Use either plant-based ground meat or more veggies like mushrooms and zucchini.

Gluten-free: Either use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, or make a white sauce at home.

Spicy Twist: If you want more of a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture.

Low-carb: Instead of potatoes, use cauliflower slices or florets.

Serving Suggestions

This hobo casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but a few things will round out your dinner:

Side Dishes: Pair with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans.

Beverages: Serve with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing side.

Garnishes: An optional dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of green onions adds an extra splash of flavour.

Make-Ahead, Storing, and Freezing Instructions

Make-Ahead

Assemble the casserole for the very last 24 hours, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate.

Fifteen minutes before baking, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature; bake as directed.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container; they should be good for about 4 days.

Either microwave the leftovers for a quick reheat, or preheat the oven to 350°F and warm until hot throughout.

Freezing

Either the prepared or unprepared casserole may be put into a freezer-safe dish and tightly wrapped with foil and plastic wrap for about 3 months.

It should be thawed overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, but fresh potatoes give the best texture. If using instant, prepare them according to the package, then layer as directed.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker; put the lid on and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are nice and tender.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Substitute with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade béchamel sauce for a fresher taste.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Its mild flavour and cheesy top are always a hit with kids. Leave out the spicy ingredients if needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe offers an ultimate comfort food that serves all the purposes, from being cheap to being cooked fast-to-almost-great taste.

Use it whether you want to throw a party or prepare meals for the week; this dish is bound to become a family classic.

Make it for dinner tonight, or if you’ve tried it already, drop a comment below and tell us how your experience went.

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