© Original Recipe By Serena’s Flavor Lab ©
Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Comfort Food 🥘🍖✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and easy comfort food that combines simple ingredients into a delicious meal, then this hobo casserole recipe is perfect for you. This classic ground beef casserole is a one-pan wonder, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Known for its savory flavors and straightforward preparation, this hobo casserole brings nostalgic comfort and hearty satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll enjoy the quick steps and crowd-pleasing taste of this easy comfort food.
2. Ingredients for your Hobo Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup cooked rice or instant rice
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: shredded cheese, herbs, or spices for extra flavor
3. How to Make the Best Ground Beef Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and chop the onion and garlic. Prepare the rice in advance if using fresh rice. You can also use leftover rice for added convenience.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as you go. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes and Soup
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and the condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir well to combine all the flavors, ensuring the mixture is heated through.
Step 5: Incorporate Vegetables and Rice
Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the skillet. Mix thoroughly, and season with salt, pepper, or optional herbs. Allow everything to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Optional: Add Cheese and Finish
You can sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy finish. Cover and let melt, creating a golden, gooey layer that enhances the comfort food experience.
4. Storage Tips for Your Ground Beef Casserole
This hobo casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in a skillet until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing and freezing.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Comfort Food
This ground beef casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For an added touch, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. If you’re looking to elevate the dish, try serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
6. Why This Hobo Casserole Recipe is a Must-Try
This easy hobo casserole epitomizes comfort food made simple and hearty. Its rich flavors and straightforward process make it a household favorite for busy nights or when you’re craving a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, its flexibility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or toppings.
7. Related Recipes and Inspiration
If you enjoyed this ground beef casserole, you might also like these easy recipes:
- Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushrooms Pasta
- Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Upgrade your cooking experience with these essential tools that make preparing this hobo casserole even easier:
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quick reheats or cooking vegetables during the casserole prep.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for your skillet.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — For additional meal versatility and grilling options.
9. Conclusion
This easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Comfort Food is a guaranteed hit for anyone seeking a hearty, satisfying, and straightforward meal. It combines simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful dish that can be customized to your taste. Perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends, this ground beef casserole is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to explore our related recipes for more delicious ideas and equip your kitchen with the best tools to make cooking even more enjoyable!
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Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Comfort Food
A simple, hearty casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes topped with cheese.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Layer cooked beef and vegetables in a casserole dish.
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- You can add sliced tomatoes or chopped green peppers to the vegetable layer for extra flavor.
- Use instant mashed potatoes for quicker preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 dish
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg