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Ground Beef Hobo Casserole

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    Ground Beef Hobo Casserole

    The Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that has earned its place in many home kitchens due to its simplicity and satisfying flavors. This casserole combines ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy, savory sauce, all topped with a golden layer of cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you crave a wholesome, filling meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. The Hobo Casserole is not only easy to make but also allows for plenty of variations, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

    The concept of the Hobo Casserole harks back to the Great Depression era, when resourcefulness and stretching ingredients were essential. This dish embodies the ingenuity of combining simple, affordable ingredients into a delicious and nourishing meal. Over the years, it has evolved and gained popularity as a comforting, one-dish meal that’s both economical and rich in flavor. The modern Ground Beef Hobo Casserole maintains these roots while incorporating contemporary twists to enhance its taste and appeal.

    Ingredients

    For the Casserole:

    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 1 large onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
    • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
    • 1 cup sour cream
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
    • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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    For the Topping:

    • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or similar buttery crackers
    • 1/4 cup butter, melted

    Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
    3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
    4. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.

    Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash brown potatoes with the ground beef mixture. Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated with the sauce.
    2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
    3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

    Step 3: Prepare the Topping

    1. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
    2. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the cheese layer.

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    Step 4: Bake the Casserole

    1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
    2. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
    3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

    Tips for the Best Ground Beef Hobo Casserole

    • Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
    • Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or corn to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
    • Switch up the cheese: While cheddar is classic, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
    • Use fresh potatoes: If you prefer, you can use fresh diced potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Just make sure to par-cook them before adding them to the casserole.

    Conclusion

    The Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a testament to the beauty of simple, hearty cooking. This dish brings together basic ingredients in a way that is greater than the sum of its parts, resulting in a meal that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home. Its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and customizable nature make it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.

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