This hearty Hobo Casserole, also known as Rustic Campfire Beef and Potato Casserole, combines tender ground beef, creamy soups, and crispy fried onions for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Small Yellow Onion, diced
- 4 Medium Russet Potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 8 oz Cheddar Cheese, grated
- 1 (10 oz) Can Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (10 oz) Can Cream of Potato Soup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- ¼ Cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning
- ⅓ Cup Crispy French Fried Onions
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Beef Layer:
- In a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or a small casserole dish), spread the ground beef evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add Onions:
- Sprinkle the diced onions evenly over the ground beef.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- Arrange the sliced potatoes evenly on top of the beef and onion layer.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
- Prepare the Soup Mixture:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of potato soup, Worcestershire sauce, milk, and Creole seasoning until well combined.
- Pour the Soup Mixture:
- Pour the soup mixture over the cheese layer, trying to distribute it evenly across the dish.
- Bake:
- Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1-½ hours.
- Add Crispy Onions:
- Remove the dish from the oven, take off the foil, and sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top.
- Brown the Onions:
- Place the skillet under a broiler for a few minutes to brown the onions. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of the casserole.
Nutrition:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Calories: 513 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Most 20 Popular Questions and Their Answers:
- Can I use a different type of ground meat?
- Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork as substitutes for ground beef.
- What other types of cheese can I use?
- You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
- Absolutely. You can add carrots, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of Creole seasoning?
- You can use Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- How do I ensure the potatoes cook thoroughly?
- Slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly.
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of canned ones?
- Yes, fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture and flavor.
- What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
- You can use any oven-safe casserole dish or baking dish.
- How do I make the casserole less salty?
- Use low-sodium soups and season the dish lightly with salt.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
- Yes, sweet potatoes can add a unique flavor and sweetness to the dish.
- Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
- Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable soups.
- Can I add bacon to this recipe?
- Yes, adding cooked, crumbled bacon can enhance the flavor.
- What side dishes go well with this casserole?
- Serve with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture.
- Can I use a different type of onion?
- Yes, you can use red onion, white onion, or shallots.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I use shredded hash browns instead of sliced potatoes?
- Yes, shredded hash browns can be used for a different texture.
- Is it okay to use a different type of soup?
- You can experiment with other cream soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery.
- Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can cook the casserole in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
By following these tips and understanding common questions and answers, you can achieve the perfect Hobo Casserole every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Secrets to Achieve the Perfect Hobo Casserole Recipe
Creating the perfect Hobo Casserole involves a few key techniques and tips to ensure a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here are some secrets to elevate your Hobo Casserole:
- Quality Ingredients:
- Use lean ground beef for less grease and a healthier dish. Fresh potatoes and high-quality cheese also make a difference.
- Properly Season the Meat:
- Season the ground beef generously with salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet to enhance the flavor right from the start.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Take the time to caramelize the onions slightly before layering them over the beef. This adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- Even Potato Slices:
- Slice the potatoes uniformly to ensure they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.
- Cheese Layer:
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese for better melting and a creamier texture.
- Thorough Mixing of Soup Mixture:
- Whisk the soup mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and smooth before pouring it over the casserole.
- Layering Technique:
- Make sure each layer is even and well-distributed. This ensures each bite has a bit of every ingredient.
- Cover Tightly:
- Cover the skillet or casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure the potatoes cook through properly.
- Bake Time:
- Bake the casserole at the right temperature (350°F) and for the full duration (1-½ hours) to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Crispy Topping:
- Adding the crispy fried onions towards the end and browning them under the broiler gives a crunchy texture and enhances the dish’s appearance.
- Let it Rest:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps set the layers and makes it easier to slice.
- Customizing Flavors:
- Feel free to add other seasonings or herbs to the soup mixture, such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary, to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Cheese Variations:
- Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist.
- Vegetable Additions:
- Add layers of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
- Consistency of Soup Mix:
- Ensure the soup mixture isn’t too thick. If it is, thin it with a little extra milk or broth to ensure it spreads evenly.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup mixture before adding it to the casserole. Adjust the seasoning if needed, especially if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option:
- If using a slow cooker, layer the ingredients in the same way and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Freezing Instructions:
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and frozen. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Leftover Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping.
By incorporating these secrets into your cooking process, you can create a perfect Hobo Casserole that is flavorful, comforting, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!