What kind of ground beef should I use?

For Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef), 80/20 ground beef is ideal. It has enough fat for flavor but not so much that it turns greasy.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed.

Is there a dairy-free option available?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based milk substitute to make it dairy-free.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Ensure the soup and fried onions are gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free tater tots.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balance out the richness of the casserole nicely.

Does it matter what type of cheese I use?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or Colby work well too, offering a slightly different flavor profile.

Amazing Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef): 5 Easy Steps

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Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef) is a comforting, budget-friendly classic with layers of creamy mushroom soup, savory beef, crispy onions, and melted cheese.

Author: Julia Monroe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup frozen tater tots (or hash browns)

1/2 cup milk

1 cup crispy fried onions

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: sliced mushrooms or bell peppers

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Drain any excess fat from the beef and transfer it to a casserole dish.

3. In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this over the ground beef in your casserole dish.

4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture.

5. Layer the frozen tater tots on top, covering the cheese completely.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown.

7. Remove from the oven, and sprinkle the crispy fried onions on top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Notes

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

To reheat, microwave for 2–3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Try adding chopped jalapeños, bell peppers, or black beans for variety.

Find it online: https://www.musttryrecipe.com/hobo-casserole-ground-beef/