The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a warm and hearty casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a mix of vegetables with a rich tomato base and melted cheese. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, this comforting one-pan dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy meals on chilly evenings, offering versatility and classic home-cooked flavors.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups diced or shredded potatoes (parboiled recommended)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 to 1.5 cups green beans or mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (10.75 oz) tomato soup or tomato sauce
- 1 to 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or your choice)
Seasonings & Cooking Aids
- 1–2 tablespoons butter or oil (for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the potatoes and chop the onions, along with any other selected vegetables, ensuring even sizes for uniform cooking.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to build a savory base.
- Sauté the Onions and Vegetables: Add diced onions and green beans or mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook until they start to soften and release their aromas and natural sweetness.
- Combine Ingredients in a Casserole Dish: Layer the cooked beef, prepared potatoes, and vegetables evenly in a casserole pan. Pour the tomato soup or sauce over the ingredients, stirring gently if desired, to bind everything together.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the casserole from becoming watery.
- Parboil potatoes before assembling to ensure they cook fully and remain moist.
- Season thoroughly for rich, layered flavors.
- Cover casserole with foil for first 30 minutes of baking to retain moisture, then uncover to brown the cheese.
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and flavor settling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, family dinner, one-pan meal, gluten free casserole