Introduction
Gather around the table, friends! There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm and hearty Hobo Casserole, brimming with flavor and nostalgia. This one-pan meal is a delightful mix of savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy goodness, all topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish not only fills your stomach but warms your heart too!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) green beans, drained
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation of that bubbling casserole will have you dreaming of dinner!
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion over medium heat. Sauté until the beef is richly browned and the onion is tender. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with the drained green beans, corn, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are beautifully incorporated.
- Transfer this hearty mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, creating a delightful cheesy layer that will melt into a golden crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and let it bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. The aromas will start to fill your kitchen!
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and turns a lovely golden brown.
- Once done, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This is the hardest part—waiting to dig in!
Notes or Tips
This casserole is incredibly versatile! Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. You can add bell peppers for a nice crunch or even some spicy jalapeños if you’re in the mood for heat. For a creamier texture, you can mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese into the filling—pure indulgence!
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the beef and onion at medium heat helps to develop amazing flavors while keeping the ingredients moist. Mixing the casserole by hand allows you to feel the textures and ensure everything is well distributed. Baking covered then uncovered in the oven helps keep everything juicy but lets that cheesy top achieve a perfect, satisfying golden hue.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the cooking time by a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with Hobo Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy and nurturing Hobo Casserole that brings a slice of home comfort to your dinner table. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this meal is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. So, gather everyone around and enjoy the deliciousness together!