Description

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef recipe is a comforting, hearty, and easy-to-make one-dish meal that combines savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings baked to perfection. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, offering a flexible and customizable dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

1 lb ground beef (lean, 90% or higher recommended)

Vegetables

1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
2 cups potatoes, cubed

Canned Goods

1 can (14.5 oz) canned tomatoes (gluten-free if needed)

Seasonings

Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Cheese (Optional)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend)

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns evenly. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole light and prevent greasiness.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and green bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish. Stir in canned tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, cubed potatoes, and seasonings evenly to distribute flavors throughout.
Bake Until Tender: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Notes

Use lean beef (90% or higher) to reduce excess grease and keep the dish light.
Cut potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure even baking and consistent texture.
Don’t skip layering the salt and herbs to build depth of flavor.
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the beefy richness.
Keep the casserole covered while baking to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, easy casserole, weeknight dinner, comfort food, one dish meal, family recipe, gluten free casserole