Hobo Casserole
Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish that layers ground beef, tender vegetables, sliced potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese in a flavorful tomato sauce. Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, this versatile one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Potatoes
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Sauces and Cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
- Prep Your Ingredients: Chop the onion and garlic finely. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds to ensure even cooking, and prepare your mixed vegetables, thawing if necessary.
- Cook the Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Then stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant.
- Layer Ingredients in a Casserole Dish: Spread a layer of sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. Add a layer of the cooked ground beef mixed with vegetables on top. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the layered ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let It Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- Use thin potato slices to ensure even cooking through the baking time.
- Do not overcrowd the casserole dish to avoid soggy results.
- Drain excess fat from the meat to prevent greasiness.
- Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking if you want to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Finish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a bright flavor boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6th of casserole)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, easy casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, family dinner