Description
This Easy Hobo Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines ground meat, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a one-dish meal that’s both satisfying and easy to clean up. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a simple meal prep option, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to adapt it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat with the chopped onion and garlic until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, sliced potatoes, carrots, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until everything is well coated.
Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the vegetables are fork-tender.
Step 7: Let cool slightly before serving.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Easy to Customize: This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can easily swap out vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings to suit your taste.
- One-Dish Meal: Everything cooks together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Comfort Food: Hearty and satisfying, it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.
- Great for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the sauce.
- Offer a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for added nutrients.
- Serve with a light vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness of the casserole.
Tips:
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Thin, uniform slices of potato ensure everything cooks at the same rate. Uneven slices may leave some parts undercooked or others overly soft.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When browning the meat, give it room to caramelize rather than steam. This step boosts flavor and keeps the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier without falling apart.
- Add a Layer of Crunch: Mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese during the last 15 minutes of baking for a crispy topping.
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or a plant-based ground for a vegetarian version.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
The Easy Hobo Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its simplicity and customizable nature make it perfect for any home cook. Enjoy the warm, hearty flavors and the easy cleanup!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe
- Can I use different vegetables in this casserole?
- Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables. Corn, peas, bell peppers, and mushrooms all work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
- If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce.
- How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
- Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly and not too thinly. Also, avoid overcooking the casserole. The potatoes should be fork-tender but not falling apart.
