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Close-up of a bubbling, golden-brown Hobo Casserole, ready to be served as a comforting family meal.

Best Hobo Casserole Ever

This Hobo Casserole recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful meal. With seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and a creamy sauce, it's a customizable dish perfect for weeknights or camping trips. Customize with your favorite vegetables and enjoy!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2-3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Shredded cheddar cheese optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Spoon
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • aluminum foil
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the diced carrots and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  6. Pour the ground beef and vegetable mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  7. Pour the cream of mushroom soup mixture over the ground beef and vegetables, making sure everything is well coated.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top (optional). Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For tender vegetables, dice them evenly and don't overcrowd the skillet. Pre-cook heartier vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash. Customize the casserole by adding green beans, peas, corn, bell peppers, or zucchini. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Cooked and crumbled bacon makes a great addition. Breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter can be sprinkled on top for a crispy topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.