Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal? This hobo casserole with ground beef is the perfect choice! Layered with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and topped with crispy onions, this dish is both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this recipe brings everyone to the table with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup chopped onions
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– 1 cup French-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pepper
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the casserole) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess fat from the beef.
4. Add diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet and sauté until soft.
5. Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and frozen mixed vegetables.
6. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
7. Transfer the beef mixture to a greased casserole dish.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
9. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove from the oven, top with French-fried onions, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option. You can also use fresh vegetables instead of frozen for a fresher taste. Additionally, swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative if desired.
Serving and Pairings
This hobo casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for an extra kick!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or re-bake in the oven at 350°F until warm. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead meal!
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can make it dry; aim for just browned.
- Not draining excess fat can make the casserole greasy.
- Skipping the seasoning will result in bland flavor.
- Using too much cheese can overpower the other flavors.
- Forgetting to cover while baking may dry out the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different vegetables based on your preference.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Top with fresh herbs for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make hobo casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Allow extra time for baking if starting from cold.
What can I serve with hobo casserole?
Hobo casserole pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Can I freeze hobo casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole or leftovers. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container or wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or hot sauce to the beef mixture before baking for a spicy kick.
Is hobo casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure all your ingredients, especially the fried onions and any sauces, are labeled gluten-free.
Conclusion
Hobo casserole ground beef is a simple yet delicious dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. With its versatile ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup French-fried onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the beef.
- Add diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, top with French-fried onions, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
