Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Introduction

Ever craved a hearty, comforting casserole that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a classic one-pan meal that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and savory vegetables in a creamy, satisfying sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe is simple, filling, and guaranteed to please the whole family.

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Ingredients List

To make this delicious Hobo Casserole, you’ll need:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup green beans or peas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• ½ cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

Substitution tips:

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or potato soup for variation.
• Add bell peppers or corn for extra veggies.

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Timing

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

This recipe is comparable in time to traditional casseroles but requires less hands-on effort.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil for 2–3 minutes. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Spread half of the diced potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Add half of the carrots and green beans. Layer the cooked ground beef over the vegetables. Top with remaining potatoes and vegetables.

Step 4: Add Sauce

Mix cream of mushroom soup with beef broth. Pour evenly over the casserole layers. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top if desired.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Remove foil during the last 5–10 minutes for a golden cheese topping.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Pro tip: Cutting potatoes into even cubes ensures uniform cooking.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, serves 6)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g

This casserole is a filling, balanced meal with protein, fiber, and vegetables.

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Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce fat.
• Swap cream of mushroom soup for low-fat or homemade cream sauce.
• Increase vegetables and reduce potatoes for more fiber and lower calories.
• Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Top with extra cheddar or parmesan for cheesy indulgence.
• Great for meal prep — store in airtight containers and reheat portions for quick lunches.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Uneven potato cuts: Leads to inconsistent cooking.
• Skipping browning beef: Adds flavor and reduces fat.
• Overcrowding vegetables: Can result in soggy texture.
• Not covering casserole: May dry out potatoes before fully cooked.

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Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to restore warmth.
• Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

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Conclusion

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a simple, comforting, and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Easy to make, hearty, and customizable, it’s a recipe the whole family will love. Try it tonight, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more cozy, easy dinner ideas!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Layer ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

Q2: Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, adjust cooking time slightly to ensure potatoes are tender.

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and cream of mushroom soup alternatives.

Q4: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well; store in airtight containers and thaw overnight before reheating.

Q5: Can I add more protein?
Yes! Add cooked sausage or beans for extra protein and texture.