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I remember the first time I tried hobo casserole – it was love at first bite. The mix of ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce was amazing. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that my family and I love.
I’m a busy parent, so I’m often searching for quick dinner ideas. This hobo casserole recipe is perfect. It’s hearty, beefy, and cheesy, making it a staple in our home. It’s great for a quick dinner or a comforting meal.
This recipe is easy to make, with just 10 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking. It’s a delicious, satisfying meal full of nutrients. Each serving has 20 grams of protein, 18 grams of carbs, and 28 grams of fat. It has a high rating of 4.96 out of 5 stars from 25 votes.
So, why not try it and make it your new favorite easy dinner recipe for family ground beef nights?
The Story Behind My Favorite Hobo Casserole Recipe
I’ve always been curious about recipe history. My favorite ground beef casserole, also known as Beef Supreme, has been loved by many for years. It’s simple, making it perfect for busy families.
This dish is a one-pan wonder with ground beef, potatoes, and cheese. It’s made even better with creamy soup. I’ve tried many variations, but the key ingredients stay the same. Using quality ground beef and fresh veggies is crucial for a great casserole.
Origins of Hobo Casserole
The name “Hobo Casserole” comes from its affordability and simplicity. It was a go-to for those needing a filling meal without spending much. Today, it’s still a favorite for many looking for a satisfying, easy meal.

Why It’s Perfect for Modern Families
This recipe is great for today’s families. It only requires a few ingredients and is simple to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, as it can be prepared ahead and cooked in under an hour. It’s also a great way to use up ground beef.
What Makes This Version Special
This recipe is special because of its unique flavors and textures. The creamy soup and shredded cheese add a richness that makes it a hit. It’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients You Must Have for the Ideal Ground Beef Casserole
To make a tasty ground beef casserole, you’ll need some key ingredients. You’ll need 1 lb of lean ground beef, 1.5 lbs of yellow potatoes, and 1 cup each of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Also, grab 1 (10oz) can each of cream of chicken and cream of celery soup, ⅓ cup of milk, ½ teaspoon of all-purpose seasoning, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and ½ cup of fried onions.
For ground beef Dutch oven recipes, layering ingredients is key. For a hot dish with ground beef, add onions, bell peppers, and potatoes. Try adding diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or corn for more flavor.
Here are some essential components to remember:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1.5 lbs yellow potatoes
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 (10oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10oz) can cream of celery soup

With these ingredients and a simple recipe, you can make a delicious ground beef casserole. It’s great for any night or special event. Remember, use quality ingredients and try new flavors and ingredients.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To make a tasty hobo casserole, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. A large skillet is crucial for browning the ground beef. You’ll also need a cutting board, sharp knife, and mixing bowl for prep work.
For baking, a 9×13-inch cake pan or Dutch oven works well. A Dutch oven is perfect for supper ideas and easy ground beef because it cooks evenly. Optional tools include a colander, measuring cups, and a wooden spoon.
Here’s a list of the must-have items:
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch cake pan or Dutch oven

For cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Cover it with foil for 1 hour and then bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
Tool/Equipment | Description |
---|---|
Large Skillet | For browning the ground beef |
Cutting Board | For preparing the ingredients |
Dutch Oven | For baking the casserole |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make this tasty Hobo Casserole, first, preheat your oven to 375°F. Brown 1 pound of ground beef, is a key ingredient in many easy dinner recipes for families using ground beef. Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper for flavor.
While the ground beef is brown, cook 1 cup of small diced onion and 1 medium red bell pepper until tender. This step is crucial for making what to make with ground beef easy and delicious. Continue cooking for one more minute after adding one tablespoon of minced garlic.
Now, layer the ingredients in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with the browned ground beef, then the cooked onion and bell pepper mixture. Add 4 medium thinly sliced potatoes next. Top it all with 1 1/2 cups of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack cheese.
Here’s a summary of the cooking instructions:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 6 – 8 servings

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Hobo Casserole. This recipe is great for those looking for easy dinner recipes for the family using ground beef. It’s also a fun way to make what to make with ground beef easy and enjoyable.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ground Beef | 1 pound |
Cajun Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
Onion | 1 cup |
Red Bell Pepper | 1 medium |
Garlic | 1 tablespoon |
Potatoes | 4 medium |
Cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
My Secret Tips for the Best Results
Focus on a few key areas to get the best out of your ground beef casserole. These include choosing the right meat, preparing vegetables well, and using the right seasonings. These tips will help you make a delicious, easy dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Choose lean ground beef, like 90/10 or 97/3, to avoid a greasy dish. Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for even cooking and texture. Using pre-chopped onions and garlic can also save you time and effort.
Meat Selection and Preparation
When picking ground beef, go for a leaner option. This will make your dish less greasy. To keep the meat from getting tough and dense, handle it gently.
Vegetable Preparation Tricks
Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for even cooking. This makes them tender. Use pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time. You can also add carrots and peas for extra flavor and nutrients.
Seasoning Secrets
To enhance flavor, mix kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Adding dried or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also add depth. These tips will help you make a tasty, easy dinner that your family will love.
Here’s a quick summary of the best tips:
- To make the recipe less greasy, use lean ground beef.
- Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for uniform cooking
- Use pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time
- To prevent compacting the flesh, handle it carefully.
- Consider adding other vegetables, such as carrots and peas
- Use a combination of seasonings to add more flavor
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
Looking for a simple dinner idea? A hot dish with ground beef is perfect. You can add Worcestershire or soy sauce for extra flavor. Green beans or carrots make it healthier. Try different cheeses like American or Monterey Jack for a twist.
For a leaner dish, use 80/20 or 90/10 ground beef. Jalapenos or red pepper flakes add spice. More milk or sour cream makes the sauce creamier. You can make this dish your own with a bit of creativity.
Here are some ideas for making your hotdish unique:
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients
- Use different potatoes like sweet or Yukon golds for varied textures and flavor
- Try ground turkey for a different take on the classic recipe
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a bright, refreshing taste
Experimenting with ingredients makes your hotdish special. It’s great for a quick dinner or a comforting meal. Get creative and soon you’ll be a pro at easy dinners!
Conclusion: Making This Hobo Casserole Your Own Family Tradition
By following the tips and variations in this article, you can make hobo casserole a favorite in your home. This ground beef casserole is tasty and easy to make. It’s perfect for busy families because you can prepare it ahead of time.
Make hobo casserole your own by trying new ingredients and flavors. Swap the ground beef for turkey or plant-based options. You can also change up the veggies to match your family’s taste. This dish is flexible, letting you create a special version your family will love.
Preparing these supper ideas for easy ground beef recipes nourishes your family’s bodies and spirit. It’s a chance to start a new tradition. So, invite your family to enjoy this hobo casserole recipe together. Begin a tradition that will be loved for many years.
FAQ
What is a Hobo Casserole?
A Hobo Casserole is a hearty dish filled with beef, cheese, and potatoes. It is a hearty dinner that is ideal for hectic workdays.
Why is this Hobo Casserole recipe a new family favorite?
It’s loved because it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients. It’s a satisfying meal for families on the go.
What are the origins of the Hobo Casserole recipe?
The Hobo Casserole has a long history. It’s simple, making it great for today’s families. This version combines beef, potatoes, and cheese with a creamy sauce.
What makes this Hobo Casserole recipe special?
It’s special because it mixes classic flavors with a creamy sauce. It’s a hearty meal perfect for busy families.
What are the essential ingredients for the perfect Ground Beef Casserole?
You need ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce. These ingredients make a filling dish with a rich flavor.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to prepare the Hobo Casserole?
You’ll need a large skillet, cutting board, and mixing bowl. A Dutch oven or casserole dish is optional, depending on your preference.
What are the key steps for cooking the Hobo Casserole?
First, brown the ground beef. Then, cook the onion and bell peppers until tender. Layer the ingredients in a dish and bake until the cheese is melted.
What are some tips for achieving the best results with the Hobo Casserole recipe?
Choose the right ground beef and prepare the vegetables well. Use the right seasoning and slice the potatoes thinly for even cooking.
What are some delicious variations and substitutions for the Hobo Casserole recipe?
You can add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for flavor. Or, add vegetables like green beans or carrots for more nutrition.
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