Introduction
Welcome to a cozy kitchen moment where comfort food takes center stage! This Hobo Casserole is a delightful one-dish meal that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. Packed with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a family gathering. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that promises deliciousness with every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (16 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep your dish light and healthy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with kidney beans, diced tomatoes (including their juice for that rich flavor!), corn, uncooked elbow macaroni, beef broth, garlic powder, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix everything together well until you have a beautifully colorful medley, then transfer it to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delightful golden crust.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This waiting period helps the casserole set up a bit more before serving. Enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this dish! Swap the ground beef for turkey or a meatless option for a different twist.
- If you want to add some spice, consider tossing in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat before serving!
Cooking Techniques
Browning the ground beef properly is key to building flavor! Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks so that it evenly browns. Also, don’t skip draining the fat; it helps keep the casserole from getting greasy. To achieve that lovely melting cheese, ensure your oven is properly preheated before baking!
FAQ
- Can I make this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just increase the baking time if cooking from cold.
- What can I serve with Hobo Casserole? This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some warm garlic bread.
Conclusion
This Hobo Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Perfect for busy evenings or a comforting family dinner, it brings everyone together with its robust flavors and satisfying texture. So gather your loved ones, serve this dish hot, and enjoy the smiles around the table. Happy cooking!