Rustic Hobo Casserole
Rustic Hobo Casserole is a cozy and hearty comfort food combining ground meat, potatoes, vegetables, cheese, and tangy tomato sauce into a simple, filling, and versatile baked dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it features easy preparation with wholesome ingredients that can be customized for dietary preferences while delivering warm rustic flavors.
- Author: Sarah
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein Base
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
Vegetables & Starches
- 2 cups diced or shredded potatoes (pre-cooked slightly)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Sauces & Dairy
- 1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
- 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Brown the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop potatoes and vegetables into bite-sized pieces. If using diced potatoes, boil or microwave them briefly to soften before adding.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the browned meat, potatoes, chopped vegetables, tomato sauce or ketchup, and seasonings. Stir gently to meld flavors while maintaining texture.
- Layer and Add Cheese: Transfer the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top to cover the surface.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and the ingredients are heated through.
Notes
- Pre-cook potatoes slightly to ensure tenderness after baking.
- Keep vegetable and potato pieces uniformly chopped for even cooking.
- Season each ingredient individually before combining for richer flavor.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for intensified taste and better melt.
- Allow casserole to rest 5-10 minutes post baking for easier serving and enhanced flavor melding.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Rustic Hobo Casserole, comfort food, casserole, ground beef recipe, family dinner, easy recipe, baked casserole, hearty meal