There’s something irresistibly comforting about a dish that combines hearty ground beef, colorful veggies, and a medley of seasonings all baked together in one pan. Hobo casserole ground beef is the ultimate weeknight hero, bursting with flavors and textures that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. baked oatmeal cups for breakfast Imagine the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as this dish bakes to golden perfection, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
This recipe isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating memories. Picture family dinners where laughter fills the air, and everyone dives into their plates with gusto. Hobo casserole has been my secret weapon for those chaotic weeknights when cooking feels like climbing Mount Everest. Trust me; this dish guarantees smiles all around! For more inspiration, check out this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hobo casserole ground beef is so easy to prepare that even your cat could try (but please don’t let them)
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory goodness that’s hard to resist
- Its visual appeal makes it look like a culinary masterpiece right out of a magazine
- You can easily customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it perfect for any occasion
Every time I served this dish at family gatherings, the compliments poured in like a waterfall. My cousin once declared it “the food equivalent of a warm hug,” and honestly, who could argue with that?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Onion: A sweet onion adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Bell Peppers: Use vibrant colors like red or yellow for visual appeal and sweetness.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with herbs to infuse extra flavor effortlessly.
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Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes create a comforting base while absorbing delicious juices.
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Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle of melting cheese on top brings everything together beautifully.
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Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper elevate the dish’s flavor; feel free to adjust to taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab your favorite baking dish. A 9×13-inch casserole dish works perfectly for this hearty meal.
Sautéing Aromatics: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they become tender and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.
Browning the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with your spatula—this usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
Mix in Flavorful Goodness: Stir in canned tomatoes along with their juices. Season generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste; simmer for another 5 minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.
Laying Down The Base: In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom. This forms a cozy foundation for all those tasty toppings.
Adding The Filling**: Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potato layer before topping it off with more potatoes followed by the rest of the meat mix on top; don’t skip any layers!
Baking It All Together**: Cover your casserole with aluminum foil (to prevent over-browning) and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove foil and sprinkle cheddar cheese across the top before returning to the oven for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Now you’ve created an irresistible hobo casserole ground beef that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Allow it to cool slightly before serving; this helps prevent any surprise lava-like cheese eruptions! quick and easy English muffin pizzas.
You Must Know
- Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is not just a meal; it’s a delightful one-pan wonder that brings joy to any table
- The mingling aromas of beef, veggies, and spices create a comforting experience that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, cook the beef first until browned, then add onions and peppers. This way, you infuse delightful flavors into every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies like zucchini or carrots. zucchini ricotta melts You can also experiment with cheese varieties for extra creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Hobo Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it remains deliciously moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, ensure to drain excess fat after browning the meat for a healthier dish
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate flavors significantly
- Always taste as you cook—trust your palate!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would whip up her version on chilly nights. spicy Italian crescent ring The whole family gathered around the table, and laughter filled the air as we savored each bite.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in Hobo Casserole?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based substitutes for a lighter meal.
How long does it take to prepare Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, while cooking usually takes around 30 minutes total.
Can I freeze leftovers of Hobo Casserole?
Yes, this dish freezes well; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container for up to three months.

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, a one-pan dish that melds hearty ground beef, vibrant veggies, and rich seasonings into a delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole not only fills your belly but also warms your heart with every bite. With layers of tender potatoes and gooey cheese, it’s a family favorite that guarantees smiles around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers (red or yellow), diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
- 3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté onions and bell peppers until tender (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned (7-10 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in canned tomatoes and seasonings; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Layer half the sliced potatoes in the baking dish, followed by half the meat mixture. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg