Hobo Meatball Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hobo Meatball Casserole
If you’re searching for a cozy, hearty meal that warms both the heart and the home, look no further than Hobo Meatball Casserole. This delightful dish combines tender meatballs with a medley of wholesome vegetables, all baked together in a creamy sauce. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this casserole is sure to please. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a nostalgic dish that resonates with those who appreciate the simple comforts of home-cooked meals.
A Personal Story Behind My Hobo Meatball Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed casserole dinners, especially on chilly evenings. This Hobo Meatball Casserole brings back fond memories of gathering around the dinner table, sharing stories, and enjoying delicious food. My grandmother had a knack for creating meals that were not only filling but also brought everyone together. This recipe is a tribute to her legacy and a reminder of how comforting a good meal can be.
What Makes This Hobo Meatball Casserole Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the way it brings together a variety of ingredients. With just a few basic items, you can create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent, yet is easy to prepare. The combination of ground beef or turkey, fresh vegetables, and a creamy soup base makes for a flavorful experience. Plus, the option to add cheese at the end offers a delightful twist that elevates the dish even further. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also encourages creativity in the kitchen.
The Full Hobo Meatball Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 small potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10.5 oz can condensed mushroom soup or cream of celery soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef or lean ground turkey
- ½ onion, grated
- ½ cup unseasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish with non-stick spray, butter, or oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ lbs of ground beef or turkey, grated onion, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Mix well and shape into small meatballs, about 1 tablespoon each, for a total of approximately 48 meatballs.
- Toss the vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the sliced potatoes, carrots, onion, chopped cabbage, olive oil, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This adds flavor to the base of your casserole.
- Layer the casserole: Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in the greased casserole dish. Next, place the prepared meatballs on top of the vegetables.
- Add the soup: Spoon the condensed mushroom soup evenly over each meatball, ensuring they are well covered. This will create a creamy texture as it bakes.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish loosely with foil and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. Remember to check halfway through and stir if needed for even cooking.
- Optional cheesy finish: For an added touch, consider sprinkling some grated cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a delicious cheesy crust.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hobo Meatball Casserole
Hobo Meatball Casserole can be served as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal. Adding a simple side salad can also enhance your dining experience. For variations, you might consider incorporating different vegetables such as bell peppers or green beans for added color and flavor. If you enjoy a bit more spice, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can also elevate the dish. This recipe is versatile and allows you to adapt it to your personal taste preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hobo Meatball Casserole
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you bake it.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meatball casserole that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Hobo Meatball Casserole
Equipment
- 9 x 13 casserole dish Greased for baking
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 small potatoes peeled and sliced
- 2 cups carrots peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 2 cups cabbage chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10.5 oz condensed mushroom soup or cream of celery soup
- 1.5 lbs ground beef or lean ground turkey
- 0.5 onion grated
- 0.5 cup unseasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Grease a 9 x 13 casserole dish with non-stick spray, butter, or oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley (if using). Shape into small meatballs, making about 48 in total.
- In a large bowl, toss together the potatoes, carrots, onion, cabbage, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Layer the vegetable mixture evenly in the greased casserole dish. Place the meatballs on top of the vegetables.
- Spoon the condensed mushroom soup evenly over each meatball.
- Cover the casserole dish loosely with foil and bake for 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- For a twist, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.