Introduction
There’s something so comforting about a hearty casserole, especially one that brings together the richness of ground beef and tender potatoes in a single dish. This Hobo Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With layers of flavors and a delightful creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will create the perfect environment for our casserole to bake—warm and inviting.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s richly browned and fragrant. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and savory.
- While the beef is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the sliced potatoes, chopped onion, drained green beans, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir everything together until well mixed, allowing those flavors to blend beautifully.
- Add your perfectly cooked ground beef to the potato mixture, gently folding it in to ensure an even distribution throughout the dish.
- Transfer this comforting mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, and place it in the oven to bake for 45 minutes. The smell will be incredible!
- After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust.
Notes or Tips
For extra flavor, try adding your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the potato mixture. You can also substitute the green beans with other vegetables like corn or diced bell peppers for a different twist. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making this recipe perfect for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the simplicity of skillet cooking and baking techniques. Browning the ground beef evenly ensures a richer flavor, while layering ingredients in a casserole allows them to meld together beautifully as they cook. Using a 9×13 baking dish promotes even heat distribution, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as the last!
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives, while sausage can bring in an additional layer of flavor. Just adjust the spices as necessary.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a medley of your favorite beans or lentils, and swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a plant-based equivalent.
Conclusion
This Hobo Casserole is a true embodiment of comfort food that simplifies mealtime while delivering hearty flavors the whole family will enjoy. With its easy preparation and satisfying taste, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish. So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up a generous portion, and relish the smiles that follow!