Name: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Layers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 1½ cups green beans (fresh or frozen); 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes with juice; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

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Hobo Casserole with Ground is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This hearty, old-fashioned casserole combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, carrots, and green beans simmered together in a rich tomato-beef sauce. It’s a wholesome meal that embodies home-cooked goodness and is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole with Ground

This Hobo Casserole with Ground is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavors. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

Easy preparation makes it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
It’s a complete one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup time.
Affordable ingredients make it budget-friendly — perfect for families.
Customizable with various proteins like turkey or plant-based options for vegetarian hobo casserole recipes.
Rich in nutrients thanks to the mix of vegetables.
Comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies your cravings.
Leftovers taste even better, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients for Hobo Casserole with Ground

Gather these items:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
1½ cups green beans (fresh or frozen)
1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes with juice
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil or butter

How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). (5 minutes)
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat. (8–10 minutes)
Step 3: Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef and cook until softened and fragrant. (2–3 minutes)
Step 4: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined. (2 minutes)
Step 5: Add potatoes, carrots, green beans, diced tomatoes with juice, and beef broth. Stir until everything is evenly coated. (5 minutes)
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. (3 minutes)
Step 7: Cover tightly with foil and bake until potatoes are fork-tender. (1 hour 15 minutes)
Step 8: Remove foil and bake uncovered to slightly thicken the sauce. (10–15 minutes)
Step 9: Let the casserole rest before serving for best flavor and texture. (10 minutes)

Pro Tips for the Perfect Hobo Casserole with Ground

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoning to your taste for a personalized flavor.
Use fresh or frozen green beans based on what you have on hand.
For a cheesy twist, consider adding a cheese topping in the last few minutes of baking.
Allow the casserole to rest after baking for better texture and flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground

This dish can be served in various delightful ways:

Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Perfect as a standalone meal or alongside your favorite sides.

How to Store and Reheat Hobo Casserole with Ground

To store your Hobo Casserole with Ground, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can last up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven until warmed through, approximately 20–30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This casserole is great for meal prep, ensuring you have ready-to-eat comfort food available.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hobo Casserole with Ground

What’s the secret to perfect Hobo Casserole with Ground?

The key is to ensure that the vegetables are cut uniformly and cooked until tender. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Can I make Hobo Casserole with Ground ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hobo Casserole with Ground?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the ground beef is well-browned and that the vegetables are cooked until tender. Also, don’t skip the resting time after baking for the best texture.

Variations of Hobo Casserole with Ground You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Add in mixed vegetables for a colorful twist.
Try a vegetarian option by replacing the meat with lentils or mushrooms.
Incorporate different spices for a unique flavor profile.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Layers - Hobo Casserole with Ground - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cobbler or Ground Beef Zucchini Skillet.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Layers - Hobo Casserole with Ground - additional detail

For more great ideas, try our Peach Upside Down Cakes or Cheesy Zucchini Casserole.