Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe | Easy Comfort Food Dinner

Introduction

Hobo casserole with ground beef has earned a special place in comfort food kitchens across the country. It combines simplicity with hearty flavors, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The dish has roots in humble beginnings, often cooked over a campfire or in a single pan using affordable ingredients. Ground beef adds a rich, savory flavor, while a mix of vegetables and potatoes provides texture, nutrition, and visual appeal.

Ingredients Needed

Creating a delicious hobo casserole with ground beef begins with assembling fresh and wholesome ingredients. Here is a clear breakdown, including calorie counts for each ingredient:

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Ground beef	1 pound	960
Potatoes	4 medium	520
Carrots	2 large	50
Onion	1 medium	45
Bell peppers	2 medium	50
Frozen peas	1 cup	120
Garlic	3 cloves	15
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons	30
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon	15
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup	455
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	240
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	0
Paprika	½ teaspoon	5
Dried thyme	½ teaspoon	2
Beef broth	½ cup	10

Each ingredient plays a specific role. Ground beef provides protein and flavor, potatoes and carrots offer starch and natural sweetness, while cheese adds creaminess. Herbs and seasonings round out the flavors and keep the dish from feeling heavy or bland.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Hobo casserole with ground beef is straightforward to prepare, but following steps in the right order ensures perfect results every time.

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to allow for even cooking.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Peel and chop potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Dice carrots, onion, and bell peppers into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Mince garlic cloves finely.
3. Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
4. Add Vegetables: Add onions, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for five to seven minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Combine Ingredients: Mix in potatoes, frozen peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir thoroughly so flavors blend evenly.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for thirty to forty minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for five minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and avoid burning your mouth.

Following these steps ensures every layer of the casserole is flavorful and cooked to perfection.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Hobo casserole with ground beef is highly versatile. Small changes can adapt it to different tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap Vegetables: Use sweet potatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms instead of traditional potatoes and carrots for added flavor variety.
• Change Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner option.
• Add Spices: Introduce chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Include Beans: Kidney beans or black beans add fiber and make the casserole even more filling.
• Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a different cheese texture and taste.
• Make it Creamier: Stir in a half cup of sour cream or cream of mushroom soup before baking to create a rich, creamy casserole.

Customizing the dish allows it to match any dietary preference or family taste while maintaining the hearty essence of a traditional hobo casserole.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional profile helps plan meals for a balanced diet. Below is an approximate breakdown for one serving, assuming the recipe makes six servings:

The casserole provides a good balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. Using lean ground beef and fresh vegetables enhances health benefits while keeping calories reasonable.

Serving Suggestions

Hobo casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh side dishes. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Bread rolls or garlic bread complement the hearty texture of the casserole and help soak up any juices. For a lighter twist, serve with a side of fresh fruit to contrast the savory flavors.

Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave, making them convenient for lunches or a quick dinner. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving to enhance presentation and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make hobo casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra five to ten minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze hobo casserole?
Absolutely. After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What is the best type of ground beef to use?
Ground beef with 80 percent lean and 20 percent fat provides the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner meat can be used, but it may result in a drier casserole.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes. Replace ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Is hobo casserole gluten free?
As long as all ingredients are naturally gluten free and no gluten-containing sauces are added, the casserole is safe for a gluten free diet.

Conclusion

Hobo casserole with ground beef is a classic, hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its simplicity allows for easy preparation, while its versatility encourages creativity in the kitchen. Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of savory beef, tender vegetables, and creamy melted cheese. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this casserole combines practicality and comfort in one delicious dish.