Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a simple, hearty meal that brings together ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheese for a comforting dish that'll fill up your belly and warm…
Tip: save now, cook later.Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a simple, hearty meal that brings together ground beef, potatoes, and melted cheese for a comforting dish that’ll fill up your belly and warm your heart. It’s one of those recipes where everything cooks together in one pan, making dinner both easy and satisfying.
I love making this casserole on busy weeknights because it’s quick to prep and cleans up in a snap. The mix of tender potatoes and savory beef, all topped with gooey cheese, makes it a favorite with the whole family. I like to add a little extra seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost the flavors—it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
The best part is how versatile it is. I often serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add a bit of brightness. On chilly evenings, this casserole hits the spot every time and even makes great leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s a simple, comforting dinner that never goes out of style in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the star protein, giving the casserole its rich, meaty flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes cook evenly and become nice and tender. Russet potatoes work great, but Yukon Golds add a buttery taste. If you want, try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet note.
Cream of mushroom soup: This adds creaminess and depth without much fuss. If you don’t have mushroom soup, cream of chicken or celery soup are good substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use a homemade or canned cream sauce alternative.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives a rich flavor. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra gooeyness or use a different cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby.
How Do You Layer and Cook Potatoes So They’re Tender Without Overcooking?
The secret to tender potatoes here is slicing them thin and layering them carefully. Thin slices let heat reach all the way through without leaving hard bits.
- Slice potatoes about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking.
- Layer potatoes evenly in the dish so they cook uniformly.
- Cover the casserole with foil during most of the baking to trap steam, which helps soften potatoes.
- Uncover near the end to allow cheese to brown without drying out the potatoes.
- Test tenderness by poking potatoes with a fork before serving.
This method ensures tender potatoes and a nicely melted cheesy top every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to layer potatoes and beef without spilling.
- Large skillet – for browning ground beef and sautéing onions all in one pan.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice potatoes thinly and evenly for tender cooking.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface for chopping onions and slicing potatoes safely.
- Aluminum foil – covers the casserole while baking to keep moisture in and potatoes soft.
- Spoon or spatula – for mixing beef and soup, and spreading layers evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish and keep it lean.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies and flavor.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika for a mild smoky kick.
- Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a little spicy creaminess.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
How Long Will It Take?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour and 15 to 20 minutes to bake. So set aside nearly 1 hour and 40 minutes total, including a few minutes to cool before serving. It’s easy and mostly hands-off after assembling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat to keep it less greasy.
3. Add Spices and Soup:
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Then add the cream of mushroom soup, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until combined and thickened slightly.
4. Layer the Potatoes and Beef Mixture:
In your greased baking dish, spread half the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Pour half the beef mixture over the potatoes, spreading it gently. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef to make two layers.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 1 hour.
6. Finish Baking Uncovered:
Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the potatoes are tender. You can check the potatoes by inserting a fork to make sure they’re soft.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley. Add a dollop of sour cream on top if you like—it complements the cheesy, savory flavors beautifully.
Enjoy your warm, hearty Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef—comfort food made easy!
Can I use frozen ground beef for this casserole?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing. Cooking it thawed ensures even browning and proper texture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it covered at 350°F, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
What can I serve with Hobo Casserole?
This casserole pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness. Crusty bread also makes a great side to soak up any sauce.
