Hobo Casserole With Ground Beef and Potatoes: Ultimate Comfort Food Delight

I started my journey with Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes in the cozy corner of my mom’s kitchen. The aroma of ground beef sizzling in a skillet always brings back fond memories of family dinners. The simplicity and heartiness of this dish made it a staple in our home, turning ordinary evenings into delightful family gatherings.

Cooking Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes combines comfort with creativity. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of the joy of crafting something delicious from basic ingredients. The layers of potatoes and cheese create a beautiful harmony with the seasoned beef, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition worth sharing. The rich, savory flavors wrapped in tender potatoes make it a favorite for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. Preparing Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes feels like a celebration of home-cooked goodness that anyone can enjoy.

As you dive into making this delightful dish, you’ll find that Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating memories and bringing loved ones together around the table. This recipe stands as a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.

Hobo Casserole With Ground Beef and Potatoes

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• Author: Aria
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Discover how to make a delicious hobo casserole with ground beef and potatoes. This easy recipe is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

• Ingredients:
• Nonstick cooking spray or 1-2 tablespoons (23 ml) vegetable oil
• 1 pound (454 g) ground beef 80/20 preferred
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) black pepper divided
• 1 cup (240 ml) onion diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper diced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) minced garlic
• 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups (180 g) shredded cheese sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack preferred
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
• 1 10.5-ounce can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 10.5-ounce can condensed cream of potato soup
• ½ cup (120 ml) milk
• ¼ cup (60 g) plain yogurt
• 2 teaspoons (10 ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 3 ounces (85 g) about 1 ¼ cups crispy fried onions (alternative to French’s fried onions)
• ¼ cup (15 g) green onions thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh parsley finely minced

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Instructions

1. Instructions:
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (177°C) to preheat. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or oil. Set it aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet on medium-high. Place the ground beef in the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and half of the black pepper. Cook the beef until fully browned, making sure to break it apart as it cooks. Drain any extra fat if needed.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, which should take about 10-12 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until it’s aromatic.
5. Layer the Potatoes and Cheese: Lay out half of the potato slices evenly at the base of the prepared dish. Season with half of the salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Repeat this process for the second layer of potatoes, seasoning, and cheese.
6. Add the Beef Mixture: Spread the cooked beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the layers of potatoes.
7. Prepare and Pour the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the condensed soups, milk, yogurt, and Worcestershire sauce until they are smooth. Pour this sauce over the beef and vegetables, distributing it evenly.
8. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish tightly with foil and place in the preheated oven to bake for 1 ½ hours.
9. Add the Topping: Take the casserole out of the oven and remove the foil. Evenly distribute the crispy fried onions over the top. Place back in the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are golden.
10. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 7-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and finely minced parsley, if you like. Serve while warm and enjoy!

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Notes

• Opt for lean ground beef or turkey for a lighter dish.
• Try different cheeses like smoked Gouda or Swiss for a unique taste.
• Add a hint of heat with cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Mastering Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes

Fundamentals

To craft a classic Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes, you need to start with quality ingredients. The choice of ground beef is crucial; I recommend using 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. This ratio ensures that your beef remains juicy while cooking, adding depth to the casserole.

Seasoning plays a vital role in enhancing the dish. The Cajun seasoning provides a subtle kick, while black pepper adds warmth. Together, they create a flavor profile that complements the creamy layers of potatoes and cheese perfectly. For the cheesy element, sharp cheddar or a blend with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack works wonders, offering a rich, gooey texture that binds the dish together.

Both the cream of chicken and cream of potato soups act as the backbone of this casserole. They add a luscious creaminess that envelops the beef and vegetables, making each bite irresistibly smooth. Mixing these with milk and yogurt ensures a perfectly balanced sauce that ties all components together seamlessly.

Preparation/setup

Preparation begins with preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and preparing your baking dish. Whether you opt for nonstick spray or vegetable oil, ensure your 9×13-inch dish is well-coated to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy serving and cleanup.

Next, focus on cooking the ground beef. Use a large skillet on medium-high heat, adding the beef and seasoning with Cajun seasoning and black pepper. Break the beef apart as it cooks to achieve an even texture. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole light and flavorful.

Sautéing the diced onion and bell pepper in the same skillet adds a layer of sweetness and depth. Cook until they soften, then introduce the minced garlic for an aromatic boost. This vegetable mixture will add a delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy potatoes and cheese.

Exploring the Art of Layering

Technique

Layering is where the magic happens in a Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes. Begin by laying half of your thinly sliced potatoes at the base of the dish. Season them with salt and pepper, then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese. Repeat this process to form two hearty layers.

Spread the cooked beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the layered potatoes. This step ensures that every serving contains a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The beef mixture provides a savory foundation that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes and cheese.

Finally, prepare the sauce by whisking together the condensed soups, milk, yogurt, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this over the beef and potatoes, allowing it to seep into every corner of the dish. This sauce acts as the glue that holds the casserole together, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Tips/tricks

For optimal results, make sure your potato slices are uniform in thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents some slices from being undercooked while others become too soft. A mandoline slicer can be a helpful tool for achieving consistent slices.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese varieties. While cheddar is a classic choice, blends like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a delightful twist. Their subtle differences in flavor can transform each bite, making the dish uniquely yours.

When whisking the sauce, aim for a smooth consistency to prevent lumps. This ensures an even distribution across the casserole, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Pour slowly and evenly, allowing the sauce to penetrate the layers beneath.

Perfecting Your Casserole Experience

Perfecting results

Baking the casserole requires patience. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap in moisture and bake for 1 ½ hours. This long, slow cook allows the flavors to meld, and the potatoes to become tender and infused with savory goodness.

Once baked, add a crunchy topping of crispy fried onions. Place the casserole back in the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy layers beneath, elevating each bite.

Letting the casserole sit for 7-10 minutes before serving allows it to set. This resting time ensures that each slice holds its shape, making serving easier and more visually appealing. Use a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts and present each portion beautifully.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your casserole seems too dry, it may need more sauce. Adjust by adding extra milk or soup next time to enhance moisture. Conversely, if it’s too wet, ensure you drain the beef thoroughly before layering.

For a twist, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to the beef mixture. These additions can introduce new flavors and textures, keeping the dish exciting and fresh for repeat servings.

To accommodate dietary preferences, swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken. These lighter alternatives offer a different flavor profile while maintaining the dish’s heartiness. Adjust seasonings accordingly to match the new protein choice.

Serving and Storing Your Culinary Creation

Serving/presentation

Presentation matters when serving Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and minced parsley for a pop of color and freshness. These vibrant touches not only enhance visual appeal but also add a subtle layer of flavor.

Serve the casserole hot, ensuring each portion includes a bit of every layer. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory beef, and crunchy onions creates a harmonious blend that is sure to impress at any gathering.

If you love creative comfort food, you’ll definitely want to try these Cheeseburger Casserole recipes that are sure to delight and satisfy.

Pairings/storage

Pair your casserole with a fresh, crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. These light accompaniments complement the rich, hearty flavors of the casserole, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, portion and freeze individual servings for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Explore other delicious casserole options like the Cowboy Casserole with Ground Beef and Cornbread for more inspiration!

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes captures the essence of comfort food with its rich layers and satisfying flavors. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese makes it a beloved dish for any occasion.

This casserole’s versatility and ease of preparation are key strengths, making it a reliable choice for busy evenings or special gatherings. The potential for customization allows you to tailor it to your taste, whether through varied cheese selections or added ingredients.

For more ground beef inspirations, explore our Green Chile Stew with Ground Beef and Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef for diverse, delicious options.

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