Description

Looking for a comforting and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Try this Slow Cooker Hobo Casserole! This hearty dish combines ground meat, potatoes, macaroni, and cheese into one delicious, satisfying casserole that cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavors and is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef or ground sausage, pre-cooked and drained
2 cups diced potatoes
1 diced onion
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups chicken or beef broth
1.5 cups uncooked macaroni noodles
1/2 cup sour cream
2.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat:

In a saucepan, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:

Grease the inside of the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Add the cooked meat, diced onion, cream of mushroom soup, and diced potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

3. Cook the Mixture:

Set the slow cooker on high and cook for 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.

4. Add Broth and Macaroni:

After 3 hours, stir in the broth and uncooked macaroni noodles. Cover and continue cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes. The macaroni will cook and absorb the flavors from the casserole.

5. Add Cheese and Sour Cream:

Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Mix well to combine. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top. Cover and cook for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve this delightful Slow Cooker Hobo Casserole hot. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a simple side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

Serving Tips:

Serve Hot: This casserole is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it straight from the slow cooker for the best texture and flavor.
Pair with Sides: Complement the casserole with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread to complete the meal.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Portion Control: Use a large spoon or ladle to serve generous portions. This casserole is hearty and filling, so a little goes a long way.
Add Toppings: Consider adding extra toppings such as a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, or a dash of hot sauce for additional flavor.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the casserole is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing: You can freeze this casserole for longer storage. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To avoid freezer burn, make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or a bit of milk if the casserole seems too thick.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, avoid overcooking to prevent the macaroni from becoming too soft or mushy.
Portioning for Freezing: If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider portioning them into smaller containers for easier reheating and to avoid thawing more than you need.