Hobo Casserole Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our *Hobo Casserole Recipe*! This hearty dish brings together the most delightful layers of savory ground beef, creamy soups, and a tantalizing topping of crispy fried onions. It’s a nostalgic journey that warms your heart and fills your belly, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Embrace the simplicity of this *Hobo Casserole Recipe* with ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role in adding layers of taste and delightful textures.

• 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a hearty foundation with a meaty richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the beef.
• 4 medium yellow potatoes: For a creamy, starchy layer that complements the beef.
• 8 oz Colby Jack cheese, freshly grated: Melts beautifully, adding a rich and gooey topping.
• 10 oz can cream of chicken soup: Contributes creamy, savory depth to the casserole.
• 10 oz can cream of celery soup: Adds a subtle background flavor that enhances the dish.
• ⅓ cup milk: Helps bind and smooth the soup mixture.
• ½ teaspoon all-purpose seasoning: A sprinkle of extra flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: An umami boost for an extra savory note.
• ½ cup French’s fried onions: Crispy, golden topping for a delightful contrast in texture.

Variations

The beauty of this *Hobo Casserole Recipe* is its flexibility. Feel free to change things up based on what you have or prefer. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to tailor to your taste buds.

• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Cheesy Explosion: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a varied flavor profile.

How to Make Hobo Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a lightly greased 10″ cast iron skillet, add the ground beef. Break it apart and evenly distribute it across the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Layer the Potatoes

Peel and slice your yellow potatoes into thin rounds. Layer these over the seasoned ground beef, making sure they are evenly spread out for a uniform cook.

Step 3: Sprinkle with Cheese

Grate the Colby Jack cheese and shower it over the potatoes, enveloping them in a blanket of cheesy goodness. This layer will melt into a luscious coating during baking.

Step 4: Mix the Soups

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cans of cream of chicken and celery soups with the milk, all-purpose seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the soup mixture evenly over the cheese layer. Use the back of your spoon to smooth it out. Cover with aluminum foil and place in the oven. Bake for 90 minutes, using a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any potential overflow.

Step 6: Finish with Fried Onions

Remove the casserole from the oven, take off the foil, and sprinkle the fried onions on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. This finishing touch adds an irresistible crunch.

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your Hobo Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh green onions or chopped parsley. These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also introduce a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans. These sides provide a refreshing counterbalance to the hearty nature of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this casserole in individual cast iron skillets for a rustic and charming table presentation. Alternatively, carve out a section with a large spoon for a more casual, family-style serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal anytime.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly! Simply let it cool completely before wrapping it securely in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Hobo Casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Single servings can also be microwaved, but the oven method is preferred to retain that crispy onion topping!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This *Hobo Casserole Recipe* is a true family favorite, providing comfort and nourishment with every bite. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy this cozy classic at your next meal!

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