The aroma of Hobo Casserole Ground Beef wafts through the kitchen, promising a hearty meal that warms both the belly and the soul. Imagine a bubbling pot filled with ground beef, tender vegetables, and a medley of spices that dance together in perfect harmony.
I remember the first time I made this dish it was a chilly evening, and my friends were gathered around. Their smiles and satisfied sighs as they dug in made me realize I had stumbled upon something special. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this casserole is sure to bring everyone together around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying dish your family will love
- Its colorful layers look stunning on any dinner table, inviting everyone to dig in
- This versatile recipe allows you to swap ingredients based on what you have in your pantry
One particularly memorable night, my friend Jerry proclaimed it “life changing,” right before asking for seconds who could resist those compliments?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option while still enjoying great flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Use any color you prefer they add sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth of flavor yellow onions work best for caramelizing.
- Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes are perfect for adding moisture and tanginess to the mix.
- Potatoes: Sliced thinly, they serve as a hearty base that absorbs all the delicious juices.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates a gooey, delightful finish that everyone loves.
- Seasoning Blend: Customize with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs for added flavor depth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces while breathing in their fresh aromas.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until soft about 5 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef: Push the veggies aside and add ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned thoroughly while breaking it apart with your spatula. Aim for about 6-8 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in canned tomatoes along with your chosen seasonings. Let everything simmer together for 5-10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Layer It Up: In a greased baking dish, layer half of your thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over them before layering more potatoes followed by the remaining beef mixture.
Topping Time: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top layer of beef. Cover with aluminum foil to keep moisture in while baking.
Bake It Perfectly: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake covered for about 30 minutes. Remove foil afterward and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Now you can take a moment to admire your creation as it bubbles away in the oven
Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving up generous portions. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Hobo Casserole Ground Beef it’s comfort food at its finest
You Must Know
- Hobo casserole is a hearty, one-pan dish that combines ground beef and vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food
- The aroma of the cooking meat and veggies will fill your home, creating an inviting atmosphere for family and friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, then add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Follow this with canned tomatoes and your choice of seasonings before letting it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken. You can also toss in leftover veggies from your fridge or experiment with different spices to create your unique flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for quick meals.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve optimal flavor, always season your layers while cooking
- Using fresh herbs can elevate this dish dramatically
- Remember to taste as you go to ensure balanced seasoning throughout
I remember the first time I made hobo casserole my friends devoured it and declared me a culinary genius. Little did they know it was just a one-pan wonder
FAQ
Can I make hobo casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
What ingredients can I substitute in hobo casserole?
Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or use any vegetables you have on hand.
How do I know when hobo casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when all ingredients are heated through and flavors meld beautifully.
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful one-pan meal that combines savory ground beef, colorful veggies, and creamy cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish melds hearty flavors in every bite, making it a true comfort food favorite. Serve it hot from the oven and watch your loved ones gather around the table for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned (6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir in canned tomatoes and seasonings; let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, half of the beef mixture, remaining potatoes, and top with the rest of the beef mixture.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. - Add any leftover vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. - For a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
