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–+ servings
Melany

Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

Preheat the Oven:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
  1. 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).
  2. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
  1. Layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Sprinkle the diced onion and any optional vegetables (like carrots or bell pepper) over the potatoes.
  3. Spread the cooked ground beef over the vegetable layer.
  4. Pour the prepared soup mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all layers are coated.
5. Bake the Casserole:
  1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and French’s Fried Onions on top.
  3. 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:
  1. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  2. 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.

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