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The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  • 12 tablespoons butter or oil (for cooking)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the potatoes and chop the onions, along with any other selected vegetables, ensuring even sizes for uniform cooking.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, family dinner, one-pan meal, gluten free casserole