Hobo Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring ground beef, potatoes, and savory flavors. Perfect for family meals, it’s a true crowd-pleaser.
Introduction
Hobo Casserole: Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake is a hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Combining ground beef, potatoes, and seasonings, this bake is both flavorful and filling.
Hobo Casserole is an enduring favorite, ideal for feeding a crowd or making ahead for a busy week. A simple dish made with basic ingredients, it delivers layers of flavor with minimal effort. The combination of seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes, topped with cheese and baked to golden perfection, makes it a winning meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or need a hearty family meal, Hobo Casserole is versatile and satisfying.
In the second paragraph, we’ll explore more details about the casserole’s rich history and variations that make this dish so universally loved. For more tips on meal prep and quick dinner ideas, check out the Sally’s Baking Addiction blog for helpful guides and The Kitchn for unique recipe inspiration. You can also look into AllRecipes for tons of family-friendly recipes, including casseroles like Hobo Casserole.
What is Hobo Casserole?
Hobo Casserole, also known as a ground beef and potato bake, brings a rustic and down-home appeal to your dinner table. This casserole traditionally combines ground beef, sliced potatoes, and savory seasonings. Baked in one dish, it offers both convenience and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The dish’s versatility allows you to add different vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings to make it your own.
The name Hobo Casserole likely comes from the idea of a simple, hearty meal that could be easily prepared by “hobos” or travelers. These individuals often sought easy-to-make, filling dishes that could be cooked over a campfire or on a stove. Today, this dish remains a nostalgic comfort food that reminds many of home-cooked meals.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: Hobo Casserole is quick to make, using basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.
- One-Dish Meal: Everything comes together in one casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Customizable: You can adjust the recipe based on dietary preferences, swapping ingredients like potatoes for sweet potatoes or ground beef for turkey.
- Hearty and Filling: With potatoes, beef, and cheese, this casserole offers plenty of nutrition and satisfaction in every bite.
- Great for Leftovers: Hobo Casserole keeps well in the fridge, making it a perfect dish to enjoy for multiple meals.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients
For this Hobo Casserole: Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake, you will need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken for a variation)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano (optional)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
How to Make Hobo Casserole
In the next section, we’ll break down the step-by-step process of making your very own Hobo Casserole. From sautéing the beef to layering the ingredients in the casserole dish, each step is straightforward and easy to follow.
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. When fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft. Add the beef broth and stir to combine, scraping up any bits of meat left in the pan. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Then, spread half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Add another layer of potatoes, followed by the remaining beef mixture.
Step 4: Add Soup and Cheese
Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the casserole, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Top with shredded cheese and any additional seasonings you prefer. Cover the casserole with foil.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Storage Options
Hobo Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–30 minutes or until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
There are plenty of ways to tweak the Hobo Casserole recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are some popular variations:
- Substitute Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Use Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist and added nutritional value.
- Cheese Variations: Try adding mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Additionally, some people like to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the casserole. Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on what you have available or your personal preferences.
Pairings and Accompaniments
Hobo Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: For something a bit more indulgent, serve the casserole with some warm garlic bread.
- Steamed Vegetables: A simple side of steamed broccoli or green beans complements the hearty casserole perfectly.
For beverages, consider serving a light, chilled drink like iced tea or sparkling water.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
Compared to similar dishes like shepherd’s pie or tater tot casserole, Hobo Casserole has a distinct texture thanks to its combination of sliced potatoes and ground beef. While shepherd’s pie uses mashed potatoes, the sliced potatoes in Hobo Casserole create a more rustic, bite-sized texture that contrasts nicely with the tender beef and creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes a casserole stick together?
A casserole holds together because of the binding ingredients, typically a combination of starches like potatoes or pasta and a creamy element, such as soup or cheese.
When were casseroles most popular?
Casseroles became a popular American comfort food during the 1950s when home cooks embraced quick and easy meal options. The concept of one-dish meals became especially appealing to busy families.
What is a casserole recipe?
A casserole recipe typically involves layering ingredients in a baking dish and cooking them until everything is tender and flavorful. It usually includes a protein, vegetables, starch, and a binding sauce or cheese.
What is hobo casserole?
Hobo Casserole is a hearty, one-pan dish made with ground beef, sliced potatoes, and a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese. It’s a nostalgic, easy-to-make meal.
Best Time to Enjoy the Recipe
This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, especially on a chilly day. It’s filling, warm, and offers a comforting meal after a busy day.
Presentation Tips
To present your Hobo Casserole attractively, serve it directly from the casserole dish in large, rustic servings. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Conclusion
Hobo Casserole: Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake is a beloved dish that delivers hearty comfort and flavor. Its simple preparation and satisfying ingredients make it a go-to meal for families or those looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner. The dish is customizable and can be adapted to suit various tastes, whether you prefer beef or turkey, or enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and cheeses.
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