Ground Beef Hobo Casserole

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to dig into a true comfort classic? Today, we’re bringing the spirit of the great outdoors right into your cozy kitchen with a timeless Ground Beef Hobo Casserole. 🏕️✨

This humble dish has its roots in the campfire meals of hardworking travelers — simple, hearty, and made with whatever was on hand. Over time, families began to recreate it in their own ovens, giving rise to this creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with warmth and your belly with joy. 💛

Imagine layers of tender potatoes, juicy ground beef, onions, and a velvety cream sauce bubbling together under a golden crown of cheese — pure nostalgia in every bite! Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or looking for an easy weeknight dinner that hits the spot, this recipe delivers that down-home goodness you’ll crave again and again. So, grab your skillet, gather your simple pantry staples, and let’s make a comforting casserole worthy of your family table. 🍲🧀


Ingredients

🥩 Meat & Veggies

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional: peas, carrots, or corn)

🧂 Seasonings

  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

🧀 Sauce & Topping

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 tbsp butter, for greasing the dish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. 🧈
  2. Brown the beef — In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it begins to brown. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Season it up! Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully. 🌿
  4. Prepare the sauce — In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar to make it extra creamy.
  5. Layer the casserole — Place a layer of sliced potatoes on the bottom of your prepared dish. Add half of the beef mixture, then a layer of mixed veggies if using. Repeat with another layer of potatoes and beef.
  6. Pour on the goodness — Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the top. Use a spoon to spread it out, ensuring all potatoes are covered so they cook tenderly.
  7. Bake it to perfection — Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese generously over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. 🔥
  8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy that irresistible aroma that says “home.” 🏡

Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 55 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

Approximate per serving:

  • Protein: 24g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g

This hearty casserole packs balanced nutrition with a comforting flavor. The potatoes offer energy-giving carbs, while the beef adds rich protein and iron. The creamy sauce and cheese provide calcium and indulgence in every bite. Swap in ground turkey or lean beef for a lighter version, or add more veggies for a nutrient boost! 🌽🥕


#ComfortFood #FamilyDinner #GroundBeefRecipes #CasseroleLove #HeartyMeals

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️

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