How I Check for Doneness
The potatoes tell you a lot.
Slide a fork into one of the thicker potato slices. It should go through easily without much resistance. Check the carrots too.
For the beef, use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the patty.
Ground beef should reach 160°F.
I would not judge it only by whether the inside looks pink. A thermometer is quicker and removes the guesswork.
If the meat is ready but the potatoes are still a little firm, simply cover the slow cooker again and give the trays more time.
The Juices at the Bottom Are Worth Keeping
Be careful when you remove the foil trays.
There can be quite a bit of hot liquid hiding underneath the vegetables.
I usually slide a wide spatula underneath the foil while using tongs to steady the sides. That gives the tray some support and makes it much less likely to fold in half.
Set each one on a plate before serving.
And do not throw away the liquid at the bottom.
Spoon some over the beef and potatoes. It is easily one of the best parts of the meal.
A Few Things That Make This Recipe Better
The potatoes need to be thin. I know I have already mentioned that, but it is the one detail that can make or break this dinner.
Do not press the hamburger patties too tightly either. Shape them enough to hold together and leave them alone.
I also would not add extra liquid to the slow cooker.
The beef and vegetables release plenty of moisture while they cook. Adding water or broth can leave everything more watery than you want.
If your family likes stronger seasoning, black pepper or a little garlic powder can be mixed into the beef. Worcestershire sauce is good too.
Just be careful with additional salt.
Can You Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely.
Thinly sliced onion is probably the easiest addition.
Mushrooms work well because they release more savory juices as they cook.
Bell peppers are another option, although they become very soft after several hours in the slow cooker.
You could also sprinkle cheddar cheese over the beef right after removing the trays. Cover them loosely for a minute and the heat will melt the cheese.
None of that is necessary, though.
The basic four-ingredient version is the one I would make first.
What to Serve With Hobo Dinner
I usually do not make much else.
There are already potatoes and carrots underneath each beef patty, so adding several side dishes almost defeats the purpose of this recipe.
If you want something green, a simple salad works.
Warm dinner rolls are also good, especially if you want something to mop up the juices at the bottom of the foil.
Leftovers
Take leftover food out of the foil and transfer it to a covered container before refrigerating.
It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
Save some of those cooking juices with the leftovers if you can. They help keep the potatoes and beef from drying out when reheated.
For a quick lunch, microwave an individual portion until thoroughly hot.
You can also place everything in a covered baking dish and warm it in a 350°F oven.
Can I Prep It Ahead?
You can do some of the work ahead of time.
The carrots can be peeled and sliced and the beef can be mixed with the onion soup seasoning.
Potatoes are a little trickier because they start discoloring once they are peeled and cut.
If you want to slice them early, keep the slices submerged in cold water in the refrigerator. Drain them well and pat them dry before assembling the trays.
For the easiest option, I would assemble everything shortly before turning on the slow cooker.
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>)
