Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. This hearty casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, combining the rich flavors of ground beef with a medley of vegetables and savory seasonings. Originating from the Great Depression era, hobo casseroles were a practical solution for families looking to stretch their ingredients while still providing a filling meal. Today, this dish remains a favorite for its simplicity and versatility.
People love Hobo Casserole Ground Beef for its incredible taste and texture. The ground beef becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks, while the vegetables add a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparing the Ingredients
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Chop the onion into small pieces and mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside in a bowl.
- Open the cans of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and corn. Drain and rinse the kidney beans and corn, and keep the diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Measure out the elbow macaroni and beef broth, and have the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper ready to use.
Cooking the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will help keep the casserole from being greasy.
Combining the Ingredients
- After draining the fat, return the skillet to the heat and add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, corn, and uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the macaroni to cook and absorb the flavors.
Finishing Touches
- After 15-20 minutes, check the macaroni for doneness. It should be tender but not mushy. If it needs more time, continue to simmer for a few more minutes.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and become gooey.
Serving the Hobo Casserole
- After the cheese has melted, uncover the skillet and give the casserole a gentle stir to mix the cheese throughout.
- Using a large spoon, serve the hobo casserole into bowls. It’s hearty and filling, perfect for a family meal.
- Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious hobo casserole with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family, then this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is an absolute must-try! This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese, all baked together to create a deliciously satisfying casserole that warms the soul. It’s not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and gatherings.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, consider swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach, to boost the nutritional value. If you’re a fan of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile and give it a nice kick.
When it comes to serving suggestions, this casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added touch of freshness. For those who love a bit of crunch, consider topping the casserole with crushed crackers or fried onions before baking for an extra layer of texture.
I encourage you to give this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef a try! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. The best part? It’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup for you! After you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Sharing your thoughts and photos on social media can inspire others to try this delightful recipe as well.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Trust me, once you try this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, you’ll be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Happy cooking!
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef: A Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe
This hearty Hobo Casserole features ground beef, macaroni, and a mix of vegetables simmered in a savory broth, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It's a comforting, one-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Open and drain the canned vegetables. Measure out the macaroni and broth.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Return skillet to heat. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, and macaroni. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check macaroni for doneness. If tender, remove from heat and sprinkle cheese on top. Cover for 5 minutes to melt cheese.
- Stir the casserole gently to mix in the cheese. Serve in bowls, garnished with parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or a salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
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