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Hobo Casserole With Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole With Ground Beef


  • Author: Christopher
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Hobo Casserole With Ground Beef is a comforting and simple dinner that combines savory ground beef with smoked turkey bacon and melty plant-based cheese. Featuring layers of rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends. The recipe is quick to prepare, flexible, and wholesome, making it a reliable and filling meal that minimizes cleanup while satisfying the whole family.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 6 slices smoked turkey bacon

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables

Cheese and Sauces

  • 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (natural)

Liquids and Binders

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp natural gelling agent

Spices and Herbs

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Fry the smoked turkey bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up evenly with a spatula to achieve a crumbly texture.
  4. Add Flavors and Vegetables: Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), tomato paste (natural), and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for several minutes until the vegetables soften. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
  5. Combine and Bind: Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the natural gelling agent over the mixture. Stir well and let simmer gently to thicken the filling, keeping it moist but bound.
  6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish. Crumble the crispy smoked turkey bacon on top, then evenly sprinkle the shredded plant-based cheese over everything.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
  8. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the pan when browning ground beef for even cooking and better texture.
  • Freeze smoked turkey bacon slightly before cooking for easier chopping and crisping.
  • Add fresh parsley just before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.
  • Customize the cheese topping by mixing different types of plant-based cheese for a more complex melt.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking so it sets well and is easier to serve.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, easy dinner, family meal, gluten free casserole