The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

I love cooking and making dishes that remind me of happy times. The Hobo Casserole is one of those dishes. It’s a hearty, affordable meal that many families love. It shows how simple ingredients can make a delicious, comforting dish.

The Hobo Casserole started during the Great Depression. Home cooks had to be creative with what they had. Now, it’s a favorite for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make and loved by all.

A Nostalgic Journey Through Comfort Food History

The smell of a warm ground beef casserole made the kitchen feel cozy. This dish, known as the “Hobo Casserole,” is a big part of American comfort food.

Origins of the Hobo Casserole

The Hobo Casserole started during the Great Depression. Home cooks used simple, cheap ingredients like ground beef and potatoes. Later, heavy cream and cheese were added, making it even more delicious.

Why This Recipe Became a Family Tradition

The Hobo Casserole is loved by many families. It’s perfect for busy nights or special occasions. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a favorite. It’s a true American comfort food classic.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Hobo Casserole

Making the best Hobo Casserole needs the right mix of ingredients. Ground beef is at the center, giving it a savory taste. But the magic comes when you add potatoes, onions, and more.

To make a Hobo Casserole everyone will love, get these items ready:

• 1 lb of ground beef
• 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup of milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

The ground beef is the main protein. Potatoes and onions add texture and flavor. The cream of mushroom soup and milk make a creamy sauce. Salt and pepper make it taste even better.

For a cheesy touch, add shredded cheddar cheese on top. It melts and adds a nice flavor.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Hobo Casserole. Let’s start making it!

The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Making the perfect scalloped potato casserole with ground beef is an art. I’m excited to share my family’s secret recipe with you. This dish brings back memories of cozy family times and warm meals.

Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture

The base of this casserole is the seasoned ground beef. I brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. I break it up into small pieces as it cooks.

Once the beef is brown, I drain the fat. This makes the beef lean and full of flavor. Then, I add spices like garlic powder and paprika. I also add salt and pepper for extra taste.

Layering Techniques for Maximum Flavor

The secret to great layers is how you arrange the ingredients. I start with a layer of seasoned ground beef in the baking dish. Then, I add sliced potatoes, making sure they overlap a bit.

This creates the classic scalloped potato casserole layers. Finally, I add a creamy sauce on top. This brings all the flavors together.

Secret Tips for Extra Creaminess

To get that creamy texture, I use a few tricks. I mix milk and heavy cream for richness. I also shred the cheese finely so it melts well.

For a special touch, I sprinkle parmesan cheese on top. This adds a golden, crispy layer that’s perfect with the creamy layers below.

With these tips, you can make a delicious scalloped potato casserole ground beef dish. Serve it with a salad or veggies for a complete meal. It’s great for lunch or dinner.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make the perfect Hobo Casserole with ground beef, you need some basic tools. As someone who loves cooking, I know the right tools are key. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make this tasty dish.

First, you need a strong, oven-safe casserole dish. A 9×13 inch dish is best for layering. Glass or ceramic dishes are great because you can see the layers as it bakes.

• Oven-safe casserole dish (9×13 inch)
• Sharp chef’s knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Large skillet or sauté pan for browning the ground beef
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• Baking sheet or rimmed baking pan (for serving)

With these tools, you’re ready to make a tasty Hobo Casserole. It will become a favorite in your home. The right tools are important for quick and special ground beef recipes like this.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the perfect Hobo Casserole is fun. It mixes ground beef, potatoes, and heavy cream. Follow these steps for a tasty dish.

Meat Preparation Phase

First, cook the ground beef in a big skillet. Use medium-high heat. Break it into small pieces and add salt, pepper, and spices.

When the beef is done, drain the fat.

Potato Layering Method

• Cut the potatoes into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
• Put a layer of potatoes in a greased 9×13-inch dish, slightly overlapping.
• Spread the cooked beef over the potatoes.
• Pour heavy cream over the beef, making sure it reaches the potatoes.
• Repeat with more potatoes, beef, and cream until all is used.

Baking Time and Temperature Guide

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-55 minutes. The potatoes should be tender.

Take off the foil for the last 10-15 minutes. This lets the top get golden and crispy.

Follow these steps to make a delicious Hobo Casserole. It’s a great dish for family meals!

Time-Saving Tips and Meal Prep Strategies

I’m always looking for ways to make cooking easier. The Hobo Casserole recipe is great for saving time. It’s perfect for quick dinners or lunches.

Browning the ground beef early is a big help. I make a lot on the weekend and freeze it. This way, the meat is ready when I need it. I also chop veggies early and keep them in the fridge.

• Make a double batch of the ground beef mixture and freeze individual portions for easy future meals.
• Chop onions, peppers, and other veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
• Par-boil the potatoes a day or two before assembling the Hobo Casserole for even quicker assembly.

These tips make the Hobo Casserole a quick and easy meal. With a bit of prep, I can make a delicious dinner or lunch fast. And it still tastes homemade.

The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

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• Author: Jessica

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4–6 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (1/4 inch)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Stir in garlic, onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
3. Layer the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes, slightly overlapping them. Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Repeat with another layer of potatoes and ground beef. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top.
4. Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for added flavor.
5. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown and crisp up.
6. Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 360 per serving | Servings: 6

Variations and Customization Options

The classic 1lb of ground beef recipes, like the Hobo Casserole, are very versatile. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Let’s look at some tasty ways to make your ground meat potatoes recipe better.

Vegetable Add-ins

Make your Hobo Casserole healthier and tastier with fresh veggies. Here are some great choices:

• Diced bell peppers
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Steamed broccoli or cauliflower
• Shredded carrots
• Frozen peas or corn

Cheese Combinations

Add a creamy touch with different cheeses in your Hobo Casserole. Try these mixes:

• Cheddar and Monterey Jack
• Parmesan and mozzarella
• Pepper jack and Swiss
• Gouda and provolone

Spice Alternatives

Change the taste of your ground meat potatoes recipe with new spices. Here are some ideas:

• Taco seasoning for a Southwestern twist
• Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic
• Cajun or Creole seasoning for a bit of heat
• Ranch seasoning for a creamy, tangy kick

There are so many ways to make your Hobo Casserole special. Enjoy trying new things and making it your own.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoying scalloped potato casserole with ground beef is great. You can keep it fresh for days. Here’s how to keep it tasty.

Storing the Leftovers

Keep your casserole fresh by storing it right. Here’s what to do:

• Let it cool down before putting it in a container or bag.
• Put it in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
• It stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freeze it for 2-3 months. Use plastic wrap or foil to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating the Casserole

Ready to eat your casserole again? Here’s how to reheat it:

1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw frozen casserole in the fridge overnight.
3. Put it in a dish and cover it with foil or a lid.
4. Heat it in the oven for 20-25 minutes. It should be hot and the cheese melted.
5. For a crispy top, remove the cover for 5-10 minutes.
6. Or, heat small portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway.

Follow these tips to enjoy your casserole again. It’s a quick and tasty recipe to make anytime.

Perfect Side Dishes and Pairing Suggestions

Adding the right side dishes and drinks can make a classic Hobo Casserole even better. I love this dish and have found some great sides that make it even tastier.

A fresh salad is a great side for the casserole. It’s bright and tangy, which contrasts well with the casserole’s richness. Roasted or mashed potatoes also work well, adding more comfort to the dish.

Warm bread or buttery biscuits are also good choices. They soak up the casserole’s juices, making each bite more enjoyable. A cold lager or a rich red wine can also add to the meal’s flavor.

Choosing the right sides can make your Hobo Casserole dinner even better. Whether it’s a salad, potatoes, or bread, the goal is to enhance the dish’s flavors. With the right pairings, your meal will be even more comforting and satisfying.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

The Hobo Casserole is a tasty comfort food for fall. It’s made with ground beef and heavy cream. But, we should think about its nutrition and our dietary needs.

Each serving has 450 calories. It has 35 grams of carbs, 25 grams of protein, and 25 grams of fat. The ground beef and heavy cream make it high in calories and fat.

If you’re on a ketogenic or low-carb diet, this dish might work for you. It has fewer carbs. But, if you have high cholesterol or heart disease, you might need to change the recipe. You could use leaner ground beef or more veggies.