Introduction

Are you looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup? Look no further than the classic hobo casserole recipe! This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

What is Hobo Casserole?

Hobo casserole, also known as hobo stew or hobo dinner, is a simple dish that typically consists of ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and a savory sauce. The ingredients are layered in a casserole dish or slow cooker and baked until tender and flavorful.

The origin of the name “hobo casserole recipe” is unclear, but it’s believed to have originated during the Great Depression when people had to make do with simple, inexpensive ingredients.

How to Make a Hobo Casserole Recipe

Ingredients and Directions

Hobo Casserole

Course: Blog

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

To make this delicious recpes, you’ll need:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 onion, diced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
In a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the carrots and onions.
Spread the browned ground beef over the vegetables.
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, and beef broth until well combined.
Pour the soup mixture over the ground beef and vegetables.
Layer the remaining potatoes, carrots, and onions on top.
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations Your Hobo Casserole Recipe

One of the best things about hobo casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes or use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup mixture for a kick of heat.
Slow Cooker: Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftover hobo casserole, you can easily store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment. To store in the refrigerator, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To freeze, portion the cooled casserole into individual servings or freeze the entire dish in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions Your Hobo Casserole Recipe

Hobo casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with various side dishes to round out your dinner. Some great options include:

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
Crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the savory sauce
A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor

Making Ahead and Meal Prepping

Hobo casserole is an excellent dish for meal prepping or making ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is especially helpful if you have a busy day planned and want to come home to a ready-to-bake meal.

Alternatively, you can fully cook the casserole and portion it out into individual servings for easy reheating throughout the week. This is a great option for those who want to have a quick, homemade lunch or dinner on hand without the need for daily cooking.

FAQ: Hobo Casserole Recipe

Can I use different vegetables in my hobo casserole?
Yes, you can easily swap out or add vegetables based on your preferences or what you have available. Some great options include sweet potatoes, bell peppers, peas, or corn.
Is it necessary to use both cream of mushroom and cream of celery soup?
While using both soups adds depth of flavor, you can use just one type of cream soup if that’s what you have on hand. You can also experiment with other cream soup flavors like cream of chicken or cream of potato.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, hobo casserole can be easily adapted for the slow cooker. Simply layer the ingredients as directed and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version of hobo casserole, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce the amount of cream soups used, or add more vegetables to the dish. You can also opt for low-sodium broth and soups to reduce the overall sodium content.

Conclusion

Hobo casserole is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfies. With its simple ingredients and one-pot preparation, it’s a go-to meal for busy families or anyone who wants a delicious, hearty dinner without the fuss. Give this recipe a try and see why it’s been a favorite for generations!

Do you have a favorite variation of hobo casserole? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!

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