The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There's something about the smell of Hobo Casserole baking in the oven that feels like a warm hug. This hearty, comforting dish is packed with layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese, making it a family favorite for generations.

I first discovered this recipe during a camping trip where simplicity was key, and ingredients had to work overtime. What began as a humble one-pan dinner has now become a go-to meal in our household for busy weeknights. Let me show you how this easy, satisfying casserole comes together!

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole

Get ready to fall head over heels for this classic, no-fuss dinner. Hobo Casserole is not just delicious – it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

First, it’s a budget-friendly lifesaver. With simple pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and a can of cream soup, you can whip up a delicious meal for the whole family without breaking the bank.

Next, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can switch up the protein, add extra veggies, or even spice it up to suit your family’s tastes. It’s like a blank canvas waiting for your creativity.

Plus, the casserole comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time. Layer everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do all the work. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, the creamy, cheesy layers will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Hobo Casserole lies in its simplicity. With just a few carefully chosen ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

• Ground Beef: The star of the show, ground beef adds a rich, savory base to this casserole. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15) to keep the dish hearty without excess grease.
• Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes create a tender, slightly crispy layer that perfectly complements the creamy filling. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best here.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This pantry staple ties everything together with its creamy texture and earthy flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try cream of chicken or celery soup instead.
• Cheddar Cheese: A generous layer of shredded cheddar melts into gooey perfection on top of the casserole. Feel free to use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
• Onion and Garlic Powder: These seasonings add a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Optional but delightful: Add a handful of frozen peas or carrots for a pop of color and extra nutrients.

Special Equipment: A mandoline slicer is handy for getting evenly sliced potatoes, ensuring they cook through perfectly.

How To Make This Hobo Casserole

Making Hobo Casserole is as simple as layering ingredients in a dish and letting your oven do the magic. Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef until fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Layer the Potatoes: Thinly slice 3-4 medium potatoes and arrange them in a single layer on the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
4. Add the Beef and Soup: Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes. Pour 1 can of cream of mushroom soup over the beef and use a spatula to spread it out.
5. Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes slicing easier.

Storage Options

One of the best things about Hobo Casserole is how well it stores, making it an ideal meal for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Protein: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled sausage for a new flavor profile.
• Potatoes: Don’t have fresh potatoes? Frozen hash browns or tater tots make an excellent shortcut!
• Vegetables: Add a layer of frozen green beans, corn, or diced bell peppers to sneak in more veggies.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy Pepper Jack for a twist.
• Spices: Kick up the flavor with a sprinkle of smoked paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.

Have fun experimenting! No matter how you make it, Hobo Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ready to try your hand at this classic recipe? With its hearty layers and comforting flavors, Hobo Casserole is destined to become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in ours. Happy cooking!

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