Hobo Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Hobo Casserole is a hearty and fulfilling dish perfect for a family meal. It brings together simple ingredients into a delicious layered dish that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat. The combination of flavors from the seasoned beef, creamy soups, and cheesy topping makes it a comforting classic. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup for you!

How to Make Hobo Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup diced onion (about ½ a large onion)
• ½ cup diced red bell pepper
• ½ cup diced green bell pepper
• 2 pounds russet potatoes
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup fried onions

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking dish with pan spray.
2. Add the ground beef to a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat until no pink remains, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Stir in the salt and pepper.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until the onion is translucent and soft. Drain off the fat and turn off the heat.
4. Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and slice them thinly, placing the slices into a large bowl of cold water.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup.
6. Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with clean paper towels before layering half of the potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
7. Layer half of the meat mixture over the potatoes, then half of the sauce, followed by 1 ½ cups of the cheese. Repeat the layers using the remaining half of the potatoes, meat, sauce, and the remaining 1 ½ cups of cheese.
8. Top with the fried onions before covering the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 75-80 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the foil and broil under high for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown on top.
10. Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the potatoes to soak up any residual liquid.

How to Serve Hobo Casserole

Hobo Casserole is perfect on its own as a main course. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or some fresh bread on the side. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top before serving.

How to Store Hobo Casserole

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Tips to Make Hobo Casserole

• Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly for even cooking.
• Drain the fat from the meat thoroughly to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Feel free to add in other veggies, such as mushrooms or corn, for extra flavor and nutrition.

Variation

You can customize this casserole by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, you can switch out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese.

FAQs

1. 
   

   Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

   
   
2. 
   

   Is there a vegetarian option?
   Yes! Replace the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and diced vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

   
   
3. 
   

   Can I freeze Hobo Casserole?
   Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.

   
   

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