Looking for a simple, hearty meal that brings comfort and satisfaction? The Hobo Casserole is a classic, budget-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef, tender green beans, and crispy tater tots, all topped with melty cheddar cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love. With minimal prep and straightforward ingredients, the Hobo Casserole is a go-to option for those who enjoy traditional, home-cooked flavors with a modern twist. Dive into this easy-to-make casserole and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is tasty!
Ingredients:
– 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– One 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
– Two tablespoons of melted butter (topping optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
– Preheat the oven to 175°C, or 350°F.
2. Prepare Ground Beef:
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
After adding, sauté the ground meat until browned. Add paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for seasoning. If necessary, drain the extra fat.
3. Layer Ingredients:
– In a large casserole dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
– Cover the potatoes with half of the cooked ground beef mixture.
– Dust the casserole’s top with the buttered breadcrumbs.
– Repeat with another layer of potatoes, beef, and cheese.
4. Prepare Sauce:
– In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until well combined.
– Pour the soup mixture evenly over the layers in the casserole dish.
5. Optional Topping:
– If using breadcrumbs, mix them with the melted butter in a small bowl.
– Dust the casserole’s top with the buttered breadcrumbs.
6. Bake:
– Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
– After 1 hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve:
– Before serving, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Enjoy your Hobo Potato Casserole!
Tips:
– You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
– For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.
– You may keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days if you put them in an airtight container.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Hobo Potato Casserole!
