Cozy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

There’s something magical about hobo casserole ground beef that transforms a simple meal into a cozy, heartwarming experience. Picture this: a bubbling dish filled with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and just the right amount of seasoning, all mingling together like old friends at a reunion. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting you to grab a spoon and dive in.

Now, let me take you back to my childhood—a time when my family would gather around the kitchen table to share stories and laughter over this very dish. It wasn’t just food; it was a comforting embrace after a long day. Whether it was a chilly evening or a spontaneous gathering with friends, hobo casserole was our go-to. And trust me, after one bite of this savory delight, you’ll understand why it’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients for hobo casserole ground beef

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it’ll keep everything juicy without too much grease.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sautéing it brings out its best flavors.
• Bell Peppers: Grab one red and one green bell pepper for color and crunch; they are essential for texture.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will add aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this if you love flavor!
• Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for moisture and acidity; they help balance the richness of the beef.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These save time while adding nutrients; feel free to use your favorites.
• Seasoning Blend: A mix of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs will elevate the flavor profile; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make hobo casserole ground beef

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential so that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Mix in diced bell peppers and frozen mixed vegetables into the skillet. Cook for about five minutes until everything starts softening up nicely.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juice. Stir well and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite Italian herbs. Let this simmer for about ten minutes so flavors can mingle.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the beef mixture into a greased baking dish evenly. You want those layers looking good because we eat first with our eyes!

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil (to keep things moist) and bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove foil during the last ten minutes for that golden-brown finish.

Transfer to plates and serve warm—this hobo casserole ground beef is sure to please even the pickiest eaters! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about cozy family dinners or fun gatherings over this delightful dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet until it’s nice and crispy. Then, layer your favorite veggies and seasonings before adding in delicious sauces. Bake everything together until golden and bubbly for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even make it vegetarian with beans. Spice things up with jalapeños or add some cheese on top for that melty goodness everyone loves.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout or use the microwave for speedy meals.

I once made this hobo casserole for a potluck, and let’s just say I was basically crowned “Queen of Comfort Food” that day. Everyone kept asking for the recipe!

FAQs:

What is hobo casserole ground beef?

Hobo casserole ground beef is a hearty, one-pot dish that combines ground beef with a variety of vegetables, cheese, and often potatoes. This comfort food is simple to prepare and provides a filling meal for families or gatherings. The ingredients can vary based on personal preference, making it a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes.

How long does hobo casserole take to cook?

Typically, hobo casserole ground beef takes about 30 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake in the oven. The total cooking time can vary based on the specific ingredients used and the size of your baking dish. It’s essential to ensure that the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender before serving.

Can I make hobo casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare hobo casserole ground beef ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort when you’re ready to eat.

What can I substitute in hobo casserole ground beef?

You can easily customize hobo casserole ground beef by swapping out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, use turkey or chicken instead of beef, or add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or beans as a protein source while keeping the same delicious flavor profile.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for hobo casserole ground beef:

In summary, hobo casserole ground beef is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare. It caters to various tastes by allowing ingredient substitutions while delivering comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this recipe offers convenience without sacrificing flavor. Give it a try for your next meal; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Enjoy a delightful, heartwarming hobo casserole featuring tender ground beef and vibrant vegetables—a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

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For the Casserole:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. 3. Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
4. 4. Incorporate Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for about five minutes until softened.
5. 5. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in canned tomatoes along with their juice. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for ten minutes.
6. 6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef mixture into a greased baking dish evenly.
7. 7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes; remove foil during the last ten minutes to achieve a golden-brown finish.
8. 8. Serve: Transfer to plates and serve warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg