Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe: An Incredible Easy 1-Pan Meal

Hobo Casserole with ground beef is an amazing dish that captures the essence of comfort food. This recipe combines simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; you can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With a melange of flavors and textures, it becomes an instant favorite at the dinner table.
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further! Every bite of this incredible recipe showcases the rich taste of ground beef combined with vegetables, spices, and savory sauces. The result is a meal that’s not just filling, but also deliciously satisfying.
In this article, you’ll discover why this hobo casserole is a must-try, along with step-by-step instructions to make your cooking journey as seamless as possible. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this easy recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a delightful dish that incorporates various elements everyone loves. Here’s why this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household:
1. Easy Preparation – All you need is one pan, which means less cleaning up afterward.
2. Versatile Ingredients – You can easily substitute different vegetables or proteins, making it adaptable to personal tastes.
3. Hearty and Filling – This casserole packs a punch with protein and fiber, ensuring a satisfying meal.
4. Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love it due to its comforting flavors.
5. Quick Cooking Time – It cooks relatively fast, allowing you to enjoy dinner sooner.
6. Budget-Friendly – Utilizing ground beef and common pantry items makes this dish economical.
These factors contribute to why this hobo casserole is a must-try for anyone seeking an easy and delicious meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing the Hobo Casserole takes minimal time, allowing you to serve up dinner quickly without sacrificing flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
These times may vary slightly, but in general, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready to serve in under an hour!

Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Hobo Casserole is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to prepare this incredible meal:
1. Preheat Oven: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, allowing them to cook for about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), uncooked elbow macaroni, beef broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix thoroughly.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Once the macaroni is al dente, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
9. Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Your Hobo Casserole is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve

Serving Hobo Casserole can elevate your dining experience. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Presentation: Use a large serving spoon to dish it out onto plates, allowing guests to see the vibrant colors of the vegetables and cheese topping.
2. Sides: Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
3. Garnish: Consider garnishing each plate with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
4. Leftovers: This casserole heats up wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
By considering these serving suggestions, you can create a delightful experience around this incredible and easy hobo casserole. Enjoy!

Additional Tips

– Always Brown the Beef: To enhance the flavor of your hobo casserole, make sure to brown the ground beef well. This step adds depth to your dish.
– Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different taste.
– Don’t Overcook the Pasta: When mixing in the elbow macaroni, keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness. Opt for al dente for the best texture.

Recipe Variation

There are numerous ways to personalize this hobo casserole recipe. Consider the following variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein. Adjust seasonings to match the new protein.
2. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to introduce some heat into the dish.
3. Different Vegetables: Swap out mixed vegetables for seasonal fresh veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, enhancing its nutritional value.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store leftover hobo casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. You’ll want to consume it within three days for the best flavor.
– Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Special Equipment

To prepare the hobo casserole effortlessly, consider having these tools on hand:

– Large skillet for browning beef and mixing ingredients.
– 9×13-inch baking dish for oven baking.
– Cooking spoon or spatula for stirring.
– Foil to cover the casserole during baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and extend the cooking time slightly if necessary.
Is this a good meal prep option?
Yes, it keeps well and can be easily reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you want a lighter flavor.
How can I make this casserole creamier?
Add a can of cream of mushroom soup or some sour cream for a rich, creamy texture.

Conclusion

The Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is the ultimate easy meal that combines hearty ingredients with minimal effort. This comfort food is sure to become a beloved dish in your household. With its quick preparation and satisfying flavors, this one-pan wonder delivers a delightful experience for both cook and diners. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, the incredible taste of this casserole will leave everyone asking for more!

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