Casserole Ground Beef

Recipe By:
Ruth
Updated:

Imagine a bubbling casserole, oozing with melted cheese and tender ground beef, wafting through the air like culinary magic. Hobo Casserole Ground Beef brings together comfort, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of chaos in the kitchen that can only be described as pure joyful mayhem.

I vividly remember the first time I made this dish. My family gathered around the table, and as they took their first bites, their eyes lit up with delight everyone instantly transformed into a satisfied food critic. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or potluck adventures where you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is easy to prepare, making it a weeknight winner
  • The flavors blend beautifully, creating a savory delight everyone will love
  • Its colorful layers make it visually appealing on any table
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt depending on what you have in your pantry

I remember my friends raving about how this dish turned an ordinary night into an extraordinary feast who knew ground beef could be such a crowd-pleaser?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: The star of the show Use lean ground beef for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
  • Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; sauté until it’s sweet and translucent for the best results.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor profile; don’t skimp on this aromatic powerhouse.
  • Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; feel free to mix different colors for visual appeal.
  • Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes to bring moisture and tanginess; they create the base of our flavorful sauce.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese adds gooey goodness; choose sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor.
  • Pasta or Rice: A hearty base that makes this casserole filling; I prefer using elbow macaroni or cooked rice.
  • Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs elevate the overall taste; season generously

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onions and bell peppers while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Cook onions and bell peppers until they’re soft and fragrant about 5 minutes will do.

Add Ground Beef and Garlic: Toss in the ground beef along with minced garlic. Cook until browned all over, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon it should smell heavenly

Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in canned tomatoes along with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.

Combine Everything in a Baking Dish: In a large casserole dish, layer your cooked pasta or rice at the bottom. Pour the meat mixture over it evenly this is where magic happens

Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown a sight that will make anyone swoon.

Now you have Hobo Casserole Ground Beef ready to impress your family or guests Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Cooking is about connection what memories will you create around this delightful casserole?

You Must Know

  • Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a comforting, one-pot dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious
  • It offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals
  • The heavenly aroma while cooking makes everyone eager to dig in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef, then layer the vegetables and seasoning for even cooking. Finish with cheese on top to melt beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on your family’s favorites or even add some spicy sausage for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep flavors intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • When making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, ensure your beef is well-browned for rich flavor
  • Always taste before serving; adjust seasonings if needed
  • Layer ingredients thoughtfully to enhance texture and taste throughout the dish

I once made this dish for a potluck, and I swear it vanished faster than my last piece of chocolate cake Friends asked for the recipe, and I felt like a culinary celebrity.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use turkey instead of beef for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and provides a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

What vegetables can I add to Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

You can add bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition and color.

How long does Hobo Casserole Ground Beef last in the fridge?

It lasts about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Print

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese in a hearty, flavor-packed dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and sure to impress everyone at your table. The dish invites creativity, allowing you to tailor ingredients based on your pantry staples and family preferences.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or rice
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté onions and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add ground beef and garlic; cook until browned.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs; simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta or rice at the bottom; pour the meat mixture over it.
  6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 405
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or swap in ground turkey for a leaner option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating