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A delicious golden-brown Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef: Comfort Food for Quick Dinners served in a baking dish as a hearty meal option.

Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

This comforting one-pot wonder combines savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, and fresh vegetables in a creamy, cheese-topped sauce. It is the ultimate solution for a quick, family-friendly weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 cups green beans, fresh or frozen
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing dish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Aluminum foil
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (for draining beef fat)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and diced onions over medium-high heat until the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains.
  3. Drain the excess fat from the skillet using a colander or spoon.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, cubed potatoes, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth.
  5. Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the mixture and stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

For added depth, stir in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce before baking. If you prefer a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. To ensure even cooking, keep the potato cubes uniform in size. This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.