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Delicious Hobo Casserole with ground beef, layered with vegetables and cheese

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

A hearty, family-friendly casserole that combines savory ground beef, robust vegetables, and a creamy sauce topped with crispy tater tots or shredded cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup bell pepper, diced (red or orange for sweetness)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) or 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 cups frozen tater tots or 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar (or a mix)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and carrots; sauté 4–5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart until no longer pink and nicely browned (6–8 minutes).
  4. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, and Worcestershire. Cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add diced tomatoes and broth. Simmer for 6–8 minutes until the mixture reduces slightly and thickens.
  6. Transfer the mixture into a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Top evenly with frozen tater tots or a layer of shredded cheese.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and the top is golden.
  2. Broil for 1–3 minutes for extra crispness — watch carefully.
  3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.

Notes

Substitutions for health-conscious alternatives: Use 90/10 ground beef or turkey, swap tater tots for sliced sweet potatoes or mashed cauliflower.