© Original recipe by Savor & Snap ©
Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Comfort Food 🥘🍖✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, then this hobo casserole recipe is exactly what you need. Also known as a ground beef casserole, this dish combines simple ingredients into a flavorful, comforting dish that the whole family will love. Its easy-to-make nature and delicious taste make it a top choice among easy comfort foods. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe both accessible and delightful.
2. Ingredients for the Classic Ground Beef Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cooked rice or pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped parsley or crushed potato chips
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Easy Comfort Food
Preparing the Meat Mixture
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy. Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Cooking the Vegetables and Combining Ingredients
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for a few minutes until heated through. Then, add the cream of mushroom soup, stirring to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste. This creamy mixture forms the flavorful base of your hobo casserole.
Assembling the Casserole
Transfer the cooked rice or pasta to a baking dish. Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the rice or pasta layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top for a melty, cheesy finish.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes — just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.
4. Storage Tips for Lasting Freshness
Let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick, warm meal. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, making this dish a fantastic make-ahead comfort food option.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal
This ground beef casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete dinner, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread. To add extra flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a dash of hot sauce on top before serving.
6. Make It Your Own: Variations and Substitutions
You can customize this hobo casserole by swapping out the meat for ground turkey or beef sausage. For a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. Vegetarian? Use hearty beans or tofu instead of ground beef. Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile.
7. Internal Links for Further Inspiration
If you enjoyed this ground beef casserole recipe, be sure to check out our Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet for another delicious comfort dish. Or explore our Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies for dessert ideas to complement your meal. Looking for quick dinners? Don’t miss our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Upgrade your cooking experience with some essential tools. A high-quality Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes preparing crispy sides or reheating leftovers quick and easy. The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set provides durable and versatile pots and pans ideal for browning and baking. For efficient mixing, a KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer can make prep work a breeze, especially if you like to experiment with pasta or other ingredients.
9. Conclusion
This easy comfort food, ground beef casserole, is a versatile, nourishing dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels. Plus, with endless options for customization and leftovers that transform into new meals, this hobo casserole truly belongs in your regular rotation. Give it a try today and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will ask for again!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken in this recipe for a leaner, healthier alternative. Just cook it until fully browned and proceed as usual.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, then store leftovers in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated easily.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total time from start to finish is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it a convenient and quick *easy comfort food*.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peppers, corn, or green beans to customize this ground beef casserole to your liking.
Print
Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Comfort Food
A simple, one-pan casserole with ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection for an easy family-friendly meal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until browned.
- Mix cooked beef with cream of mushroom soup and cooked rice.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden.
Notes
- Feel free to add in mushrooms or other vegetables for extra flavor.
- For a spicier kick, include diced jalapenos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg