Crockpot Hobo Casserole

Short Description

Crockpot Hobo Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with simple ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a creamy mushroom sauce. Slow-cooked to perfection, this casserole is rich in flavor and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare – just layer the ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook.
• One-pot meal – no need for multiple dishes; everything cooks together.
• Budget-friendly – uses simple, inexpensive ingredients.
• Rich and hearty – perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying meal.
• Customizable – easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Small onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Potatoes, peeled and diced
• Carrots, sliced
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Beef broth

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Lightly grease the crockpot and layer the diced potatoes at the bottom.
4. Add the sliced carrots on top of the potatoes.
5. Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the vegetables.
6. In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the beef broth until smooth. Pour the mixture over the layers in the crockpot.
7. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
8. Stir gently before serving and enjoy warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Variations

• Cheesy Version: Add shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Extra Vegetables: Include green beans, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Different Protein: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
• Creamier Texture: Stir in a little sour cream before serving for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup?

Yes, you can sauté fresh mushrooms with a bit of butter and mix them with heavy cream or a homemade roux as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?

Yes, bake it in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well because they hold their texture during slow cooking.

Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes, assemble the layers in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day.

How do I make this dish lower in sodium?

Use a low-sodium version of cream of mushroom soup and beef broth.

Can I add rice or pasta to this casserole?

Rice may become too soft in the crockpot, but you can serve the casserole over cooked rice or pasta instead.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a bouillon cube can work as substitutes.

How do I thicken the sauce?

For a thicker sauce, mix in a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 3-4 hours if you are short on time.

What can I serve with Hobo Casserole?

Serve with a side salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Hobo Casserole is a simple, hearty, and delicious meal perfect for busy days. With its rich flavors and tender vegetables, this dish is a comforting family favorite. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, it is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the ease of slow cooking and a warm, satisfying meal!

Crockpot Hobo Casserole

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• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (low) / 3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker Meals
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Crockpot Hobo Casserole is a hearty, comforting meal made with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s a perfect slow cooker dinner for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and delivering maximum flavor!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups carrots, sliced
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1️⃣ Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 minutes.

2️⃣ Layer the ingredients: In a crockpot, layer the potatoes at the bottom, followed by the sliced carrots. Add the cooked beef mixture on top.

3️⃣ Add soup & broth: Pour the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth over the layers. Season with salt and pepper.

4️⃣ Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

5️⃣ Optional cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let it melt before serving.

6️⃣ Serve & enjoy: Scoop into bowls and enjoy a warm, hearty meal!

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Notes

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for variety.
• Add green beans or peas for extra veggies.
• For a richer sauce, mix in ½ cup sour cream before serving.