Why Make This Recipe
Hobo casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a filling meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. The blend of ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and creamy soup makes for a satisfying combination that is sure to please everyone at the table. Additionally, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients you might have on hand.
How to Make Hobo Casserole
Hobo casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make. You can have it ready for the oven in just a matter of minutes. Follow these steps to whip up this fantastic dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Directions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly.
Cook the Ground Beef and Onion: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat. You’ll want to cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
Mix the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Season this mix with salt, pepper, and any optional spices you desire, such as garlic powder or paprika. Stir well until everything is blended together nicely.
Layer the Ingredients: In a casserole dish, begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Then add half of the cooked beef and onion mixture. Follow that with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers one more time, finishing up with a top layer of cheese.
Cover and Bake: Once your layers are complete, cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This will give the top a lovely golden brown color.
Cool and Serve: After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to serve.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole
Hobo casserole is versatile and can be served in several ways. The dish is hearty enough on its own, but you might want to add a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish is also great for potlucks or family dinners, as it’s easy to make in large batches. Just scoop the casserole onto plates or serve it directly from the dish for a casual approach.
How to Store Hobo Casserole
If you have leftovers, they can be stored easily. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Hobo Casserole
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to use other types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for other types like cream of chicken or even a cheese soup for a richer flavor.
Add Vegetables: For a boost of nutrition, consider adding your favorite vegetables. Frozen mixed vegetables, corn, or green beans work great in this casserole.
Texture Variations: If you like a crunch, try topping the casserole with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs before the final baking step. This adds a delightful texture to the dish.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix and match different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a cheese blend can work well.
Variation
If you want to change things up, you can create a Tex-Mex version of hobo casserole. Simply add a layer of salsa and some black beans to the mix, and use a spicy cheese like pepper jack. Top with some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
FAQs
1. Can I make hobo casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it well with foil or plastic wrap.
2. How can I reheat leftover hobo casserole?
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25 to 30 minutes. You can also use the microwave, reheating individual portions for a few minutes until hot.
3. Is hobo casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Hobo casserole freezes well. Make sure it’s in a suitable freezer-safe container and label it with the date. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before baking.
4. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any ground meat you like. Ground turkey or pork would also work well in this dish. Each type of meat will offer a slightly different flavor.
5. What do you serve with hobo casserole?
Hobo casserole is filling enough to serve on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
This hobo casserole is an excellent family-friendly dish that is sure to become a favorite. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy!
Print
Hobo Casserole
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and comforting casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and creamy soup, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, draining excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a casserole dish, followed by half of the cooked beef and onion, and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat these layers and top with cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize ingredients and add vegetables for nutrition. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg