Hobo Casserole

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### **Instructions**

#### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of butter.

#### **Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef**
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set the beef and onion mixture aside.

#### **Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Layers**
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a little extra milk or a dollop of sour cream.
5. Begin layering the casserole in your prepared baking dish: start with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of the cooked ground beef mixture, then a layer of mixed vegetables.

#### **Step 4: Assemble the Casserole**
6. Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Make sure it covers all the ingredients to keep everything moist as it bakes.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, covering the casserole evenly.

#### **Step 5: Bake the Casserole**
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for **45 minutes**.
9. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another **15-20 minutes**, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

#### **Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
10. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and flavor, if desired.

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### **Tips for the Best Hobo Casserole**

1. **Layer the Potatoes Evenly:** For the best texture, make sure the potato slices are spread out evenly. This will help them cook properly and become tender in the casserole.
2. **Use Fresh Vegetables:** If you prefer fresh vegetables, feel free to use sliced carrots, green beans, or corn. Just be sure to cook them beforehand, as they’ll need time to soften in the casserole.
3. **Add Seasonings:** Customize the flavor by adding your favorite seasonings. A pinch of paprika, some dried thyme, or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
4. **Make It Ahead:** This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving.
5. **Swap the Meat:** If you’re not a fan of beef, ground turkey, chicken, or sausage are great alternatives that will work just as well in this casserole.

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### **Serving Suggestions**

– **With a Side Salad:** Pair this casserole with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
– **Garlic Bread:** Serve it with warm garlic bread for a more indulgent meal.
– **Sautéed Vegetables:** For a little extra veggie boost, serve this casserole with a side of sautéed greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard.

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### **Storage and Reheating**

– **Storing Leftovers:** Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– **Freezing:** You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– **Reheating:** To reheat, simply bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option.

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### **Why This Recipe Works**

**Hobo Casserole** is a perfect example of comfort food at its best. It’s an all-in-one dish that combines simple, budget-friendly ingredients, and it’s super easy to make. The creamy soup and cheese keep everything moist, while the ground beef, potatoes, and veggies provide a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen!

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### **The Bottom Line**

When it comes to comfort food, **Hobo Casserole** hits all the right notes. It’s filling, delicious, and incredibly easy to make with minimal effort. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese makes it a comforting meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole is a winning choice. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal the whole family will love!