Hobo Casserole Ground Beef: A Delicious One-Pot Meal Recipe

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. This hearty casserole, often associated with camping and outdoor gatherings, has roots in the Great Depression era when resourcefulness was key. Families would combine whatever ingredients they had on hand, resulting in a delicious and filling meal that could feed many. Today, Hobo Casserole Ground Beef remains a beloved favorite for its simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

People adore this dish not only for its savory taste and satisfying texture but also for its convenience. With minimal prep time and the ability to customize with various vegetables and seasonings, it’s a versatile option that caters to different palates. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or simply enjoy a cozy night in, Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. This will help streamline the cooking process.
2. Chop the onion into small pieces and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
3. 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.
4. Measure out the uncooked elbow macaroni and set it aside.
5. Grate the cheddar cheese if you are using a block of cheese. You will need about 1 cup of shredded cheese for topping.

Cooking the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.

Combining the Ingredients

1. Once the ground beef is browned, reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, corn, uncooked elbow macaroni, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
3. Stir everything together until well combined. Make sure the macaroni is submerged in the liquid.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the macaroni to cook and absorb the flavors.

Finalizing the Casserole

1. 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 an additional 5 minutes.
2. Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare for baking.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Baking the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
2. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to serve.

Serving the Hobo Casserole

1. Using a large spoon, scoop out portions of the casserole and serve on individual plates.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
3. This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a must-try for anyone looking for a hearty, comforting meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and creamy layers of cheese creates a dish that is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, or even swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. It also makes for excellent leftovers, so feel free to make a larger batch to enjoy throughout the week. We encourage you to try this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out for you, and feel free to share your own variations! Happy cooking!

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