Description
A hearty and comforting classic, Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole layers tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
- 4–5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup (1 can)
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French’s Fried Onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, broth, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning (if using).
- Whisk until smooth and set aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the diced onion and any optional vegetables (like carrots or bell pepper) over the potatoes.
- Spread the cooked ground beef over the vegetable layer.
- Pour the prepared soup mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all layers are coated.
5. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and French’s Fried Onions on top.
- Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional seasoning if desired.
Notes
- Pre-Cook Vegetables: For enhanced flavor, sauté carrots, peppers, or garlic before adding them to the casserole.
- Even Potato Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American