Hearty • Comforting • Family-Friendly
Looking for a no-fuss, satisfying dinner that hits the spot every time? This Hobo Casserole is just the thing! Layered with tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, this dish delivers all the heartwarming flavors of true comfort food. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a potluck favorite, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one-pan wonder is:
- Super easy to prep
- Budget-friendly using pantry staples
- Kid-approved and picky-eater safe
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or cheese
Think of it as a hearty twist on burgers and fries — baked to cheesy perfection.
🧂 What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled & thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- ½ cup frozen peas or corn
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
👩🍳 How to Make It
1. Preheat Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
Heat oil in a skillet, sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes, then add ground beef. Cook until browned. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to evenly coat the beef with flavor. Drain excess fat.
3. Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk. Add sour cream if using.
**4. Assemble the Casserole
Start by arranging half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared dish. Next, spoon over half of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Pour on half of the soup mixture to coat the layers. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup to complete the casserole.
5. Bake Covered
Tightly cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through and become perfectly tender.
6. Add Cheese & Finish Baking
Uncover, sprinkle with cheese, and bake for 15–20 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Rest & Serve
Let it rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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💡 Tips & Variations
- No time to slice potatoes? Use frozen hash browns.
- Change up the cheese — try mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Add more veggies like mushrooms or mixed frozen vegetables.
- Make ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate. If baking straight from the fridge, just add 10 extra minutes to the bake time.
🥡 Storage
Leftovers? Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
🥄 Final Thoughts
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the kind of meal that makes everyone happy — warm, filling, and full of flavor. It’s a go-to recipe for busy nights, family gatherings, or anytime you need something easy and comforting.
Pin it now, cook it later — and don’t forget to share with your casserole-loving crew!
