Introduction
Warm your heart and home with this delightful Hobo Casserole! This dish is a true embodiment of comfort food, blending layers of savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and tender potatoes, all topped with gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder brings together all the flavors you love in a hearty meal that the entire family will adore. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a nostalgic embrace of home-cooked goodness!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced thin
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, along with the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and the vegetables have softened. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your dish light and flavorful.
- Add in the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and coated in that creamy goodness.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom, creating a delightful foundation for your casserole.
- Pour the savory beef and vegetable mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven to bake for 1 hour. The aromas will fill your home with a comforting embrace!
- After an hour, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust.
- Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set perfectly for serving.
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs, like thyme or oregano. You can also substitute the mixed vegetables with fresh ones if you prefer a crunchier texture. This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator; just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly!
Cooking Techniques
Layering is key in this dish! The potatoes at the bottom not only soak up the flavors from the ground beef mixture but also create a satisfying texture. Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly for even cooking and tenderness. Cooking the beef and vegetables first not only enhances their flavors but also develops a deeper richness when baked together.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This casserole works well with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian substitutes like lentils or plant-based ground meat.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can easily substitute it with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce for a delicious alternative!
Conclusion
This Hobo Casserole is the perfect embodiment of comfort and simplicity, ideal for feeding a crowd or simply enjoying with your loved ones. With its rich flavors and heartwarming qualities, it’s sure to become a family favorite that you’ll turn to time and time again. Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal that brings together the best of home cooking!