Hobo Casserole

introduction

Growing up, my family had a go-to recipe that always brought us together on busy weeknights: Hobo Casserole. This hearty dish, filled with ground beef and layers of tender potatoes, has a special place in my heart. I can still remember the delicious aroma wafting through the kitchen while my mom assembled it after a long day. We’d rush to the dining table, eager to dig in, excited to savor the warmth and love that came with every bite. It was more than just a meal; it was a family tradition that fostered togetherness and joy.

Hobo Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for busy families, this dish can be prepped in no time, filling hungry bellies without fuss. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hobo Casserole combines hearty ground beef, creamy mushrooms, and layers of savory potatoes, all topped with melted cheese for an irresistibly comforting dish. It’s a one-pan wonder that not only satisfies but also saves time on cleanup. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole creates a warm family atmosphere and makes for excellent leftovers!

how to make Hobo Casserole

Ingredients:

• 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

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. In a greased baking dish, start layering the ingredients: First, place half of the sliced potatoes, then add the beef mixture, followed by the remaining potatoes.
5. In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Drizzle melted butter over the cheese, and if desired, sprinkle with paprika for an extra touch.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes, serve, and enjoy!

Tips to make Hobo Casserole

• For added flavor, use a blend of different cheeses.
• You can swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Feel free to throw in extra veggies like corn or green beans for some added nutrition.

How to serve Hobo Casserole

Serve Hobo Casserole warm, directly from the baking dish. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

How to store Hobo Casserole

To store leftover Hobo Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Variation

Try adding different ingredients to switch things up! You can add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even mix in some herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist.

FAQs About Hobo Casserole

1. Can I prepare Hobo Casserole ahead of time?
   Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh ones?
   Absolutely! Frozen sliced potatoes would work just fine, though they might require a slightly longer baking time.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of Hobo Casserole?
   Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or extra veggies like lentils and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

4. What can I do with leftovers?
   Leftover Hobo Casserole can be reheated in the oven or microwave and also makes a tasty filling for wraps or stuffed in bell peppers. Enjoy full versatility!

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