Hobo Casserole Italian Style is a quick and easy dinner recipe that is loaded with flavour.  This gluten free casserole is a hearty, comfort food meal to be enjoyed any time of the year.

Enjoy layers of seasoned ground beef, spaghetti, mozzarella cheese, pasta sauce and garlic bread all in one dish!

This very hearty, deep dish casserole yields 8 servings.

You will find this Italian inspired version of Hobo Casserole does not disappoint.

You could add some caesar salad to complete the meal.

Have some extra sauce heated up and ready to go along with some parmesan cheese for those that want a sprinkle.

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

Be sure to read through the entire post so that you don’t miss out on any important tips and tricks!

To begin making Hobo Casserole Italian Style I diced up a yellow onion. 

Then I prepared some gluten free spaghetti according to the package directions.

While the pasta cooked I prepared the base of the casserole by combining some lean ground beef, gluten free panko style crumbs, the diced onion and an egg.

After combining those ingredients I added in some seasonings; salt, pepper and basil.

I again combined the ingredients.  You might want to use your hands to finish the mixing so everything is well combined.

Next I pressed the ground beef mixture into the bottom of a 9″ x 13″ baking pan.

When the spaghetti was ready I drained and rinsed it in a colander.

I returned the spaghetti to the pot and mixed it with some pasta sauce.

Then I transferred the spaghetti into the baking dish on top of the meat and spread it out evenly.

Next I sliced up enough mozzarella cheese to cover the spaghetti.

Before covering the casserole to bake in the oven I poured 2 cups of pasta sauce over the cheese.

I covered the casserole with tin foil.

Then I placed it in a preheated 350F oven for 90 minutes.

Near the end of that cooking time I prepared the topping.

First I cubed 3 gluten free hot dog buns.  You could use whatever gluten free buns or bread you have on hand.

Then I heated some margarine and minced garlic in a frying pan over medium heat.

Once the margarine had melted I added the cubed bread and stirred to coat in the margarine.

I continued toasting the bread cubes for about 15 minutes over med/low heat.

After 90 minutes I took the casserole out of the oven and removed the tin foil.

I spread the toasted bread cubes over the top of the casserole.  I pushed them down slightly.

I returned the casserole to the oven for 5 minutes.

After removing the casserole from the oven I allowed it to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing.

Hobo Casserole Italian style is a deep dish casserole so smaller pieces did suffice for our family.

Some might appreciate some extra sauce smothered over the top with a sprinkling of paremesan cheese.

However you choose to eat Hobo Casserole Italian Style you will enjoy every bite!

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

More Casserole Recipes You Will Love…

PRINTABLE VERSION OF THE RECIPE CAN BE FOUND AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make this Hobo Casserole Italian Style:

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion diced
• 1 cup gluten free panko style bread crumbs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 egg, large
• 4oz mozzarella cheese sliced
• 12oz gluten free spaghetti
• 5 cups pasta sauce (some for serving)
• Topping:
• 3 gluten free hot dog buns
• 1/3 cup margarine
• 1 tbsp minced garlic

How to Make Hobo Casserole Italian Style:

1. Preheat oven to 350F. 
2. Prepare the pasta according to package directions.
3. Dice the yellow onion.
4. Dump the ground beef into a mixing bowl and add the crumbs, diced onion and egg.
5. Blend all together well.
6. Add the salt, pepper and basil.  Combine again and might need to finish mixing with hands.
7. Press the ground beef mixture into the bottom of a 9″ x 13″ baking pan.
8. Drain and rinse the pasta.
9. Mix one cup of the pasta sauce with the cooked spaghetti.
10. Spread the spaghetti evenly over top of the ground beef.
11. Cover the spaghetti with the mozzarella cheese slices.
12. Pour 2 cups of the spaghetti sauce over the cheese slices. 
13. Cover with tinfoil and place in the preheated 350F oven for 90 minutes.
14. Near end of cooking time prepare the topping by cutting the hot dog buns into cubes.
15. Heat 1/3 cup of margarine in a frying pan and add the cubes and the minced garlic.
16. Stir occasionally over medium heat for about 15 minutes.
17. After 90 minutes remove the casserole from the oven and add the topping.  Press the topping in slightly.
18. Return to the oven for 5 minutes.
19. Remove from oven.  Allow to sit for a few minutes before serving.
20. Heat the remaining sauce in the microwave.
21. Serve and spoon extra sauce over top if desired.
22. Enjoy!

FAQS:

What should I serve with hobo casserole Italian style?

If you’re looking to give your hobo casserole an Italian twist, here are some delicious side dishes to complement the flavors:

1. Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze or olive oil. It’s a refreshing side dish that pairs well with the heartiness of the casserole.
2. Gluten Free Garlic Bread: Serve some crusty Italian bread brushed with garlic-infused butter or olive oil. It’s perfect for soaking up the savory juices from the casserole.
3. Antipasto Platter: Create a platter with a variety of Italian cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and coppa, along with marinated olives, roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, and chunks of Parmesan cheese. It’s a great appetizer or side dish that adds depth and complexity to the meal.
4. Caesar Salad: A crisp romaine lettuce salad tossed with Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. The creamy dressing and tangy flavors will complement the richness of the casserole.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes roasted with olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables will add a delicious contrast to the casserole.
6. Gluten Free Bruschetta: Toasted slices of baguette topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a light and flavorful appetizer that showcases the fresh ingredients of Italian cuisine.
7. Gluten Free Pasta Salad: Cooked pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s a versatile side dish that can be served warm or cold alongside the casserole.
8. Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked gluten free ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder create a decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy your guests.

These Italian-inspired side dishes will complement the flavors of the hobo casserole and create a memorable dining experience for your guests. Buon appetito!

How do I store hobo casserole Italian style?

Storing hobo casserole Italian style requires careful handling to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s a simple guide:

1. Cooling Down: Let the casserole cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can lead to sogginess.
2. Portioning: If you’ve made a large batch, consider portioning it into smaller servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need, preventing unnecessary reheating and potential loss of quality.
3. Storage Containers: Use airtight containers or resealable plastic bags for storing the casserole. Make sure they are freezer-safe if you plan to freeze portions for later use.
4. Refrigeration: If you’re planning to consume the casserole within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. Place the container in the refrigerator’s main body rather than the door, as temperatures are more consistent there.
5. Labeling and Dating: Don’t forget to label the containers with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you consume it within a reasonable time frame.
6. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Italian-style hobo casserole, you can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or stovetop. Add a little moisture if necessary to prevent drying out, and stir occasionally for even heating.
7. Garnishing: If desired, add fresh herbs or grated cheese after reheating to enhance the flavors and appearance of the dish.

By following these steps, you can store your hobo casserole Italian style and enjoy it at its best, whether it’s fresh or reheated.

Can I freeze hobo casserole Italian style?