Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There's nothing better than a hearty, comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort, and Hobo Casserole is exactly that. This classic dish layers tender ground beef, crispy potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce into one easy-to-make bake.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a simple weeknight meal using pantry staples. After just one bite, my family was hooked! It's now one of our go-to comfort food dishes—perfect for busy nights or when you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Why You'll Love This Hobo Casserole

If you're looking for a budget-friendly, family-approved meal that’s easy to make, this Hobo Casserole is the answer. Here’s why you’ll love it:

First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this casserole comes together in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Next, it’s comfort food at its finest. The combination of savory beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mushroom soup creates a rich, flavorful dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder! Everything bakes together in one dish, which means fewer dishes to wash—a major win for any home cook.

Finally, this recipe is super customizable. Whether you want to swap the protein, change up the vegetables, or add extra cheese, there are endless ways to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Hobo Casserole lies in its simple ingredients that come together to create a deeply satisfying meal.

• Ground Beef – I recommend using 85/15 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you use a leaner option, you may want to add a splash of oil to keep it moist.
• Potatoes – Thinly sliced russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best in this casserole. They hold up well during baking and develop a delicious, tender texture.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – This adds a rich, creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together. You can substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different twist.
• Cheese – A generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top creates a golden, gooey crust. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of both.
• Onion & Garlic – Adding freshly chopped onion and minced garlic enhances the flavor of the beef and gives the casserole a savory depth.
• Milk – Mixing a little milk with the soup makes the sauce extra creamy and helps the potatoes cook evenly.
• Seasonings – A simple mix of salt, pepper, and paprika adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. You can also sprinkle in Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for an extra boost.

Equipment Needed:
You'll need a 9x13-inch baking dish, a sharp knife for slicing potatoes, and a skillet to brown the beef before layering.

How To Make Hobo Casserole

Making Hobo Casserole is as easy as layering ingredients and popping it in the oven. Here's how to do it step by step:

1. Preheat & Prep
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats, thinly slice the potatoes and chop the onion. The thinner the potato slices, the faster they’ll cook!
2. Brown the Beef
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Layer the Ingredients
   In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom. Next, spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes.
4. Make the Sauce
   In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with ½ cup of milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes. This will create a rich, creamy sauce that keeps everything moist.
5. Add the Cheese
   Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will melt into a golden, bubbly crust as the casserole bakes.
6. Bake to Perfection
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
7. Rest & Serve
   Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them properly:

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer – For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep moisture in.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Hobo Casserole is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Swap the Protein – Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different twist.
• Change Up the Cheese – Mix things up with pepper jack, Swiss, or even a smoky gouda for a bold, cheesy flavor.
• Add More Veggies – Sneak in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach between the layers for extra nutrition.
• Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Use Different Soups – Instead of cream of mushroom, try cream of chicken or cheddar soup for a new flavor profile.

No matter how you customize it, Hobo Casserole is a foolproof meal that’s always a hit.

Final Thoughts

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food classic—simple, hearty, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just need an easy dinner with leftovers for later, this recipe never disappoints.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations! What’s your go-to twist on Hobo Casserole? Let me know in the comments! 😊

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