Introduction
Hobo Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any family gathering, providing a hearty meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe allows for creativity, so you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
60 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Yield
Serves 6
This Hobo Casserole is a fantastic way to create a filling meal that you can enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner option or a dish to impress at gatherings, this casserole is sure to please all palates. Get ready to savor each comforting bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Potatoes:
– Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Thinner slices will cook more quickly and evenly.
Cook the Ground Beef:
– In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
– Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.
Assemble the Casserole:
– Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
– Spoon half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
– Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
Prepare the Sauce:
– In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk until smooth.
– Pour this mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and beef, ensuring it seeps into all layers.
Add Cheese and Butter:
– Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
– Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese to enhance the flavor and promote a golden finish.
Bake:
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
– Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Serve:
– Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes to set.
– Sprinkle with paprika for a pop of color, if desired.
– Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Cooking Tip:
– Thinner potato slices not only cook faster but also allow for more even distribution of flavors across the dish.
Optional Additions:
– Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or green beans, for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storage Instructions:
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Serving Suggestion:
– Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Layering
Proper layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution in casseroles. Start with a base layer of potatoes, followed by meat, and repeat to create a balanced dish.
Cook Ground Beef
Cooking the ground beef thoroughly enhances its flavor. Drain any excess grease after browning to maintain a cleaner taste in the casserole.
Mixing Ingredients
When combining the cream of mushroom soup and milk, mix until smooth to avoid clumps and ensure an even consistency throughout the casserole.
Baking Covered
Baking the dish covered initially helps to steam the ingredients, promoting tenderness, while exposing it towards the end allows for a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Resting Time
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a unique flavor profile.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with other cream soups, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery, or make a homemade version using milk and flour.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like carrots, green beans, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that the shredded cheese is gluten-free.
Can this casserole be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Conclusion
Hobo Casserole is a delightful and filling meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized according to personal tastes. Enjoy it as a family dinner or serve it at gatherings, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Hobo Casserole
Swap the ground beef for a mix of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a vegetarian version. Add spices like Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
BBQ Chicken Hobo Casserole
Use shredded cooked chicken mixed with your favorite barbecue sauce instead of ground beef. Layer with crispy potato slices and top with mozzarella cheese for a sweet and savory twist.
Breakfast Hobo Casserole
Incorporate breakfast sausage and scrambled eggs instead of ground beef. Add hash browns or diced potatoes, and top with a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a hearty breakfast option.
Mexican Hobo Casserole
Include black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes along with seasoned ground beef. Top with pepper jack cheese and serve with salsa and sour cream for a zesty kick.
Cheesy Broccoli and Ham Casserole
Mix diced ham and steamed broccoli with the ground beef. Layer with a creamy cheese sauce and top with extra cheese for an indulgent dish that’s rich in flavor and nutrients.
Italian Hobo Casserole
Incorporate Italian sausage and layer with marinara sauce, along with sliced zucchini and bell peppers. Finish with mozzarella cheese for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
