The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There's something magical about a recipe that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table, and Hobo Casserole is exactly that dish. With hearty layers of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender potatoes, this casserole is as satisfying as it is easy to make. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family without breaking the bank.

I first tried Hobo Casserole at a potluck dinner, and it instantly transported me back to simpler times. Since then, it’s become a go-to meal in my home, especially on chilly evenings when everyone craves something warm and filling. Let’s dive into why this casserole will soon become a favorite in your household.

Why You'll Love This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this timeless classic that checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner.

First off, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and pantry staples, you can whip up a hearty meal for the entire family without overspending.

It’s also ridiculously easy to make. Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, this dish requires minimal prep and zero complicated techniques. Simply layer the ingredients, bake, and enjoy!

The flavor is another reason to adore this casserole. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheese creates a rich, savory dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Finally, it’s versatile and customizable. You can easily swap out ingredients or add your personal touch, making it a great way to use up leftovers or cater to your family’s tastes.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Hobo Casserole lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect bite.

• Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner options, you can use 90/10, but consider adding a bit of olive oil to prevent dryness.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the ideal choice because they hold their shape well and absorb flavors beautifully. Be sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned classic is the key to the casserole’s creamy texture. For a twist, you can use cream of celery or cheddar soup instead.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a rich, tangy flavor. Feel free to use a blend of cheeses if you have them on hand.
• Onions: Thinly sliced onions add a touch of sweetness and enhance the savory profile of the dish. Yellow onions work best, but red onions or shallots are great substitutes.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a 9x13-inch baking dish and aluminum foil to cover it during baking.

How To Make This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Creating this comforting casserole is as easy as layering, baking, and enjoying. Here’s how it’s done:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it heats up, prepare your ingredients. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, dice the onions, and shred your cheese if needed.

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and season the beef with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Grease your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Begin layering by spreading half the potato slices evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a portion of the onions over the potatoes, followed by half of the cooked ground beef.

Spread a can of cream of mushroom soup evenly over the first layer, then repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, onions, beef, and soup.

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil, sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese, and return the dish to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble.

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step ensures the layers hold together beautifully when plated.

Storage Options

This Hobo Casserole is just as delicious the next day, making it a great candidate for leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you’d like to make this dish ahead, assemble it but don’t bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

• Add vegetables: Layer in thin slices of zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage make excellent substitutes for ground beef.
• Try different cheeses: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.
• Use sweet potatoes: For a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-dense option, swap the russet potatoes for thinly sliced sweet potatoes.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of paprika, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes to the beef for a bit of heat.

This recipe is all about versatility, so don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor it to your family’s preferences. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with new flavors, this Hobo Casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home!

Print