© Original recipe by The Culinary Delight ©
Easy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole for Comfort Food Fans 🍽️🧑🍳🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty and satisfying meal that comes together quickly in a single pan, look no further than the Hobo Casserole. This ground beef casserole recipe is a classic comfort food dish that can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners, this easy comfort casserole combines savory ground beef, vegetables, and potatoes into a delicious one-pan beef dish. Read on to discover how to make this hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will love!
2. Ingredients Needed for this Easy Ground Beef Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 cup canned corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Hobo Casserole
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the potatoes into small cubes to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or deep pan, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This adds flavor depth to your ground beef casserole.
Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in the diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the potatoes to start softening. Pour in the beef broth and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
Simmer the Casserole
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Corn and Cheese
Uncover the skillet, add the corn, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer.
Finish and Serve
Garnish your Hobo Casserole with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness. Serve hot, directly from the skillet for a true comfort food experience.
4. Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Beef Casserole
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
- For creamier texture, add a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- Mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more paprika or chili powder.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. To maintain the cheesy topping, reheat covered so the cheese stays melty.
6. Serving Suggestions for Your Hearty Ground Beef Casserole
This ground beef casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a more filling meal, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. This dish is perfect on its own or as part of a family-style dinner.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hobo Casserole
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Adjust cooking times as needed.
What are some good substitutions for potatoes?
Sweet potatoes or cauliflower florets work well as alternatives. They add different flavors and textures to your easy comfort casserole.
How long does it take to prepare this one-pan beef dish?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking stage, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
8. Explore Useful Kitchen Tools for Your Easy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: Elevate your cooking game with versatile appliances that can also handle stovetop tasks seamlessly.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: A durable and easy-to-clean cookware set that makes preparing casseroles a breeze.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for making crispy toppings or reheating leftovers efficiently.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, this Hobo Casserole recipe offers a straightforward, delicious way to enjoy comfort food at its best. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a satisfying ground beef casserole that can be whipped up quickly in a single pan. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a cozy meal, this easy one-pan beef dish will become a regular on your dinner rotation. Give it a try today, and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal that hits all the right notes!
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Easy Ground Beef Hobo Casserole for Comfort Food Fans
A simple, flavorful casserole with ground beef, veggies, and cheese, baked to golden perfection.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown ground beef with onions, bell peppers, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in cream of mushroom soup and cooked rice until combined.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- You can add diced tomatoes or chopped zucchini for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Baking, stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 440 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg