Hobo casserole is a beloved, time-tested recipe that embodies the spirit of hearty, humble Midwestern cooking. This slow cooker version is perfect for busy families who still want to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal at the end of the day. Originating from simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s an excellent way to bring everyone together around the dinner table, sharing good food and great company.
This slow cooker hobo casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also want to serve it alongside some warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy. For a truly comforting touch, a side of mashed potatoes will complement the hearty flavors of the casserole perfectly.
Slow Cooker Hobo Casserole
Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (15 oz) green beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
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2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, green beans, corn, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. In your slow cooker, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
5. Spread half of the soup mixture over the potatoes, followed by half of the browned ground beef and onion mixture.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, soup mixture, and meat.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
8. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt completely.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions, feel free to swap out the green beans or corn with other veggies your family enjoys, such as peas or carrots. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. If you’re a fan of extra seasoning, try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor.