Hobo Ground Beef Casserole Simple and Tasty Meal

Name: Hobo Ground Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables, drained and rinsed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup beef broth; 2 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow, shells, or any preferred shape); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; to taste salt and freshly cracked pepper; 0.5 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

October 8, 2025May 10, 2025 by Olivia

Are you looking for a simple and tasty meal that satisfies everyone? Hobo Ground Beef Casserole fits the bill perfectly! This hearty dish combines ground beef, mixed veggies, and cheese for a warm and comforting family dinner. It’s easy to make and great for busy nights. In this article, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this dish a hit! Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting Meal: This casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, making it adaptable to your taste and pantry staples.
Cheesy Goodness: The combination of cheddar cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping creates a deliciously satisfying texture that everyone loves.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables, drained and rinsed

– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

– 1 cup beef broth

– 2 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow, shells, or any preferred shape)

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

– ½ cup breadcrumbs

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

I love using simple, fresh ingredients for Hobo Ground Beef Casserole. This dish comes together easily. Each ingredient plays a role. Ground beef adds protein. Onions and garlic bring flavor. Mixed vegetables add color and nutrition.

Cream of mushroom soup gives the casserole a creamy base. Beef broth enhances the beef flavor. Cooked pasta makes the dish hearty. Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top. Italian seasoning adds a nice touch.

Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Breadcrumbs give it a crunchy topping. Olive oil keeps everything moist and tasty. You can find all these ingredients at your local store.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure the oven is hot when the casserole goes in.

– Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add 1 finely diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté it for 3-4 minutes until the onion looks clear and smells good.

Cooking Instructions

– Cook the Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is brown and cooked through. Drain any extra fat to make the dish lighter.

– Combine Ingredients: Stir in 1 can of drained mixed vegetables, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of beef broth, and 2 cups of cooked pasta. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Mix well so everything is blended.

Baking Instructions

– Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mix into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

– Add Cheese & Topping: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mix over the cheese for a crunchy topping.

– Bake: Put the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch it closely until it is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To ensure even cooking, always preheat your oven. A hot oven helps your casserole cook through. When you brown the beef, make sure it is in a single layer. This way, it cooks evenly. Use a spatula to break up clumps while cooking. This helps the beef brown nicely.

Serving Suggestions

For presentation, serve the casserole in individual bowls. This makes it feel special. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. It adds color and flavor. Consider serving crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the tasty sauce.

Customization Ideas

You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken. This gives a lighter option. If you want more veggies, add bell peppers or carrots. They add color and nutrition. Feel free to mix in some cooked sausage for extra flavor.

Pro Tips

Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories in your casserole, making it a healthier meal option.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorite fresh or frozen vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique taste and texture in your casserole.
Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily switch ingredients in Hobo Ground Beef Casserole. For a vegetarian version, use meat substitutes like lentils or plant-based ground beef. This keeps the meal hearty and satisfying while being meat-free. If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish.

Flavor Variations

To make the casserole more exciting, try adding different spices. A pinch of paprika or chili powder can give it a nice kick. You can also use herbs like oregano or basil for a fresh taste. Changing the cheese can also change the flavor. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese. Each type brings a unique twist, making your dish special every time.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Instructions

After you make Hobo Ground Beef Casserole, let it cool. This helps keep it fresh. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Always check for signs of spoilage, like bad smells or mold, before eating.

Freezing Guidelines

To freeze your casserole, first let it cool completely. Cut it into portions for easy reheating. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your casserole can stay good for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Shelf Life

Hobo Ground Beef Casserole tastes best when fresh. In the fridge, it will last about three days. If you freeze it, aim to eat it within three months. To keep it fresh longer, always store it in airtight containers. This keeps out moisture and air, which can spoil your meal. Enjoy your leftovers while they are still tasty!

FAQs

Common Questions about Hobo Ground Beef Casserole

How long does it take to bake?

It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to bake the casserole. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with Hobo Ground Beef Casserole?

I recommend crusty bread or a fresh salad. These sides pair well and add a nice balance to the meal.

Can leftovers be reheated? If so, how?

Yes, you can reheat leftovers. Place them in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warm. Enjoy your tasty meal again!

This blog post covered the tasty Hobo Ground Beef Casserole recipe. We explored the key ingredients, cooking steps, and great tips to make it shine. You can customize it easily and enjoy leftovers later. Try new variations to keep meals exciting. With this article, you now have the tools to create a delicious dish that everyone will love. Enjoy making your casserole and share it with family and friend

$- 1 lb ground beef - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables, drained and rinsed - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup - 1 cup beef broth - 2 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow, shells, or any preferred shape) - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste - ½ cup breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons olive oil I love using simple, fresh ingredients for Hobo Ground Beef Casserole. This dish comes together easily. Each ingredient plays a role. Ground beef adds protein. Onions and garlic bring flavor. Mixed vegetables add color and nutrition. Cream of mushroom soup gives the casserole a creamy base. Beef broth enhances the beef flavor. Cooked pasta makes the dish hearty. Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top. Italian seasoning adds a nice touch. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. Breadcrumbs give it a crunchy topping. Olive oil keeps everything moist and tasty. You can find all these ingredients at your local store. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This makes sure the oven is hot when the casserole goes in. - Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it's warm, add 1 finely diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté it for 3-4 minutes until the onion looks clear and smells good. - Cook the Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is brown and cooked through. Drain any extra fat to make the dish lighter. - Combine Ingredients: Stir in 1 can of drained mixed vegetables, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of beef broth, and 2 cups of cooked pasta. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Mix well so everything is blended. - Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mix into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. - Add Cheese & Topping: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mix over the cheese for a crunchy topping. - Bake: Put the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch it closely until it is bubbly and the top is golden brown. To ensure even cooking, always preheat your oven. A hot oven helps your casserole cook through. When you brown the beef, make sure it is in a single layer. This way, it cooks evenly. Use a spatula to break up clumps while cooking. This helps the beef brown nicely. For presentation, serve the casserole in individual bowls. This makes it feel special. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. It adds color and flavor. Consider serving crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the tasty sauce. You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken. This gives a lighter option. If you want more veggies, add bell peppers or carrots. They add color and nutrition. Feel free to mix in some cooked sausage for extra flavor. Pro Tips Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories in your casserole, making it a healthier meal option. Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorite fresh or frozen vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique taste and texture in your casserole. Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just bake it when you're ready to serve! {{image_4}} You can easily switch ingredients in Hobo Ground Beef Casserole. For a vegetarian version, use meat substitutes like lentils or plant-based ground beef. This keeps the meal hearty and satisfying while being meat-free. If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty dish. To make the casserole more exciting, try adding different spices. A pinch of paprika or chili powder can give it a nice kick. You can also use herbs like oregano or basil for a fresh taste. Changing the cheese can also change the flavor. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella or pepper jack cheese. Each type brings a unique twist, making your dish special every time. After you make Hobo Ground Beef Casserole, let it cool. This helps keep it fresh. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Always check for signs of spoilage, like bad smells or mold, before eating. To freeze your casserole, first let it cool completely. Cut it into portions for easy reheating. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. Your casserole can stay good for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. Hobo Ground Beef Casserole tastes best when fresh. In the fridge, it will last about three days. If you freeze it, aim to eat it within three months. To keep it fresh longer, always store it in airtight containers. This keeps out moisture and air, which can spoil your meal. Enjoy your leftovers while they are still tasty! How long does it take to bake? It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to bake the casserole. You want it to be bubbly and golden brown on top. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you're ready to enjoy. What can I serve with Hobo Ground Beef Casserole? I recommend crusty bread or a fresh salad. These sides pair well and add a nice balance to the meal. Can leftovers be reheated? If so, how? Yes, you can reheat leftovers. Place them in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warm. Enjoy your tasty meal again! This blog post covered the tasty Hobo Ground Beef Casserole recipe. We explored the key ingredients, cooking steps, and great tips to make it shine. You can customize it easily and enjoy leftovers later. Try new variations to keep meals exciting. With this article, you now have the tools to create a delicious dish that everyone will love. Enjoy making your casserole and share it with family and friends!$