Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

There’s something uniquely comforting about a hearty, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, especially on a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. Among the pantheon of beloved comfort foods, the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes stands out as a true champion. It’s a dish that evokes images of cozy family dinners, simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical, and the kind of easy satisfaction that only home cooking can provide. Forget fancy culinary techniques or exotic ingredients; this casserole is all about wholesome goodness, layered textures, and rich flavors that will wrap you in a warm hug with every bite.

This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a testament to the power of humble staples transforming into a show-stopping meal. With tender ground beef, soft, perfectly cooked potatoes, a creamy mushroom soup sauce, and a blanket of melted cheese, this Hobo Casserole delivers on all fronts: flavor, texture, and incredible ease of preparation. It’s a lifesaver for busy parents, a go-to for potlucks, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will adore. So, if you’re looking for a fuss-free, delicious, and incredibly satisfying meal that promises warmth and contentment, you’ve come to the right place. Dive in and discover why this ground beef and potato casserole will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes Recipe

You’re about to fall in love with this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes, and for many wonderful reasons! First and foremost, it’s the epitome of a “one-dish wonder.” This means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans. For anyone with a hectic schedule, this is a game-changer. The simplicity of the preparation process belies the depth of flavor you achieve, making it a perfect weeknight solution that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Beyond its convenience, the sheer deliciousness of this ground beef and potato casserole is undeniable. Imagine perfectly browned, savory ground beef, mingling with tender, sweet onions and optional garlic, all nestled beneath layers of thinly sliced or diced potatoes. Then, there’s the creamy, rich sauce, a delightful blend of condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk, seasoned just right to bind all the components together. As it bakes, the potatoes soften to perfection, absorbing the savory flavors of the beef and the lusciousness of the sauce. And finally, that glorious, golden-brown topping of melted cheddar cheese? It adds a savory, salty, and utterly irresistible finish that makes every forkful a joy. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, from the hearty meat to the tender potatoes and the gooey cheese.

This recipe is also incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just a few, you can easily adjust the quantities. It’s fantastic for meal prepping, as leftovers reheat beautifully, making your lunch or dinner planning for the next day a breeze. The ingredients are simple, affordable, and readily available, meaning you don’t need to make a special trip to a gourmet store. This makes it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing any quality or flavor. It truly embodies wholesome, comforting food that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Moreover, the process of assembling this casserole is almost therapeutic. Layering the ingredients creates a beautiful visual appeal, promising a delightful culinary journey even before the first bite. It’s hearty enough to be a standalone meal, packed with protein and carbohydrates to keep you full and satisfied. This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is more than just food; it’s a feeling, a tradition waiting to happen in your kitchen, delivering warmth, satisfaction, and smiles around the dinner table. It’s simply irresistible!

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

If you’re still on the fence about whipping up this incredible Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes, let me give you even more compelling reasons to try it today! In a world of complex recipes and fleeting food trends, this classic casserole offers a return to simplicity and genuine satisfaction. It’s a dish that transcends generations, appealing to both nostalgic palates and those seeking straightforward, delicious sustenance. Think about those nights when you crave something substantial, something that truly fills you up and makes you feel good from the inside out. This ground beef and potato casserole hits that sweet spot perfectly.

One of the top reasons to try this recipe is its undeniable “comfort food” status. When you need a meal that soothes the soul and warms the body, especially during cooler months or after a long day, this casserole delivers. It’s the kind of dish that makes your house smell incredible while it bakes, drawing everyone to the kitchen with promises of a delicious meal. The combination of savory meat, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce creates a harmonious blend that feels both familiar and deeply satisfying. It’s also an excellent way to introduce classic flavors to younger family members who might be hesitant about more adventurous dishes. Its straightforward appeal makes it an instant hit with kids and adults alike.

Furthermore, this Hobo Casserole is incredibly versatile and forgiving. Don’t have cheddar? Use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses. Want to sneak in extra vegetables? The recipe already suggests peas or corn, but you could easily add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach to the ground beef mixture for added nutrients and color. This adaptability means you can customize it to your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand, minimizing food waste and maximizing convenience. For another fantastic ground beef creation, you might want to explore our Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, which also offers a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish.

Finally, trying this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes today means investing in a reliable, delicious recipe that you’ll return to again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is short, but you still want to serve a homemade meal. It’s also an excellent choice for potlucks, family gatherings, or bringing to a friend in need, as it travels well and is always a welcome addition. Its robust nature makes it an economical choice for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, and prepare to elevate your dinner routine with this simple yet profoundly satisfying dish. You won’t regret it!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Hobo Casserole Success

Creating the perfect Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes starts with understanding the role of each ingredient and having the right tools at your disposal. This section will guide you through everything you need to make this comforting dish a resounding success in your kitchen. Precision in ingredients and proper utensils are key to achieving that ideal balance of flavor and texture.

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: The foundation for browning our ground beef and sautéing the onion. It adds a touch of richness and helps prevent sticking.
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef, 80/20 lean recommended: This is the star protein of our ground beef and potato casserole. The 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal as it provides enough fat for flavor and moisture without making the casserole overly greasy. If you use leaner beef (e.g., 90/10), you might need to add a bit more oil or broth to keep it moist. Ground chuck is an excellent choice here.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Onions add a crucial aromatic base and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef beautifully. Chopping it evenly ensures it softens consistently during cooking.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional): Garlic elevates the flavor profile of the ground beef mixture, adding a pungent, savory depth. If you’re a garlic lover, this is a must-add for that extra punch!
• 5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced or diced (about 5-6 cups): The second main component of our potato casserole. The type of potato matters for texture. Russet potatoes are excellent for their starchy quality, which helps absorb the sauce and become wonderfully tender. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great option as they hold their shape well and offer a buttery flavor. Uniformly thin slices (about ¼ inch) or even-sized dice are crucial for ensuring the potatoes cook through evenly within the casserole. This is probably the most critical prep step for texture.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: This is the creamy heart of the sauce. Condensed soup provides a rich, savory base that thickens beautifully and coats the potatoes and beef. It’s a classic shortcut ingredient that delivers consistent results in casseroles.
• ½ cup milk: Used to thin out the condensed soup, creating a pourable, creamy sauce consistency. Any milk (dairy or non-dairy, like unsweetened almond or oat milk) will work here, adjusting the richness slightly.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the entire casserole, enhancing all the flavors. Adjust to your taste, especially if your ground beef or cheese is already quite salty.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth, balancing the richness of the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for superior flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided (or your favorite cheese like Colby Jack): The crowning glory! Cheddar provides a sharp, tangy flavor and melts beautifully to form a golden crust. Using a good quality, freshly shredded cheese (rather than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents) will result in a creamier melt. Colby Jack offers a milder, creamier alternative. You’ll use half within the casserole layers and half for the topping.
• Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or corn, added with the ground beef mixture: These add a pop of color, sweetness, and extra vegetables to the dish. They don’t need to be thawed before adding.

Recommended Tools & Utensils:

Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Hobo Casserole:

• 9×13 inch baking dish (or similar size casserole dish): This standard size is perfect for holding all the layers of the casserole. A ceramic or glass dish will conduct heat evenly and look great on the table. Make sure it’s deep enough to accommodate the layers.
• Large skillet (or Dutch oven): Essential for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onion. A large surface area ensures the beef browns rather than steams. A cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan will work well.
• Large bowl: For whisking together the creamy soup mixture. A medium-sized mixing bowl will also suffice.
• Whisk: To ensure the cream of mushroom soup and milk are thoroughly combined and smooth, preventing lumps.
• Vegetable peeler: For easily peeling your potatoes.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion, mincing garlic, and, most importantly, thinly slicing or dicing your potatoes consistently. This is where precision pays off! A mandoline slicer can also be used for perfectly uniform potato slices, saving time and ensuring even cooking.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For breaking up and stirring the ground beef as it browns, and for spreading layers in the baking dish.
• Colander: To drain excess grease from the browned ground beef.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the casserole during the initial baking phase, which helps to steam the potatoes and ensure they become fork-tender without drying out.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities, ensuring the recipe turns out perfectly every time.
• Oven mitts: For safely handling the hot baking dish.

By preparing all your ingredients and gathering these essential tools beforehand, you’ll ensure a seamless cooking experience and a perfectly executed Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes that everyone will rave about!

Detailed Recipe Steps: Creating Your Hobo Casserole Masterpiece

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of assembling and baking your comforting Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. Each step is designed to ensure maximum flavor and perfect texture, transforming simple components into a delicious, hearty meal. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be enjoying a classic comfort food in no time.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish:

Your culinary journey begins with setting the stage. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your casserole is ready, promoting even cooking from the start. While the oven preheats, take your 9×13 inch baking dish (or a similar size casserole dish) and lightly grease it. You can use cooking spray for convenience, or a small amount of butter or olive oil spread with a paper towel. This crucial step prevents the casserole from sticking, especially the bottom layer of potatoes, and makes for much easier cleanup after dinner.

2. Brown the Ground Beef and Onion:

This step builds the foundational flavor of your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the 1 ½ pounds ground beef and the 1 large chopped onion to the skillet. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, break up the ground beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to ensure even browning. You want the beef to be fully browned, with no pink remaining, and the onion to be softened and translucent. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. If you’re including the optional 2 cloves minced garlic, stir it into the beef mixture during the last minute of cooking. Garlic can burn easily, so adding it late ensures its fragrant flavor without bitterness. Once cooked, it’s vital to carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This prevents your casserole from becoming greasy and heavy. Leave just the browned meat and softened onions in the skillet. If you’re adding optional frozen peas or corn, stir them into the beef mixture now. The residual heat from the beef will slightly warm them, and they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

3. Prepare the Potatoes:

While your beef is browning, focus on the second star of the show: the potatoes. Wash your 5 medium potatoes thoroughly. Then, peel them carefully. The next critical step is to thinly slice or dice them. For slicing, aim for a uniform thickness of about ¼ inch. If dicing, ensure the pieces are roughly the same size (e.g., ½ inch cubes). Uniformity is key for even cooking; inconsistent sizes will result in some potatoes being undercooked while others are perfectly tender. If you’re preparing them ahead of time, or simply want to prevent them from browning, you can place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water. Just remember to drain them thoroughly and pat them dry before you start assembling the casserole, as excess water can make the casserole watery.

4. Whisk Together Soup Mixture:

This creamy sauce is what brings all the layers of your Hobo Casserole together. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup milk, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Take a whisk and vigorously combine these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and well-blended. You want a consistent, lump-free sauce that will evenly coat your potatoes and infuse the entire dish with its savory flavor. This mixture acts as both a binder and a flavor enhancer, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious.

5. Assemble the Casserole in Layers:

Now for the fun part – layering! This structured assembly is what makes a casserole so satisfying.

• First Layer of Potatoes: Take half of your prepared thinly sliced or diced potatoes and spread them evenly across the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Try to create a single, even layer as much as possible. This foundation will absorb the flavors from above and cook beautifully.
• Ground Beef Layer: Next, spoon the entire browned ground beef and onion (and optional vegetable) mixture over the first layer of potatoes. Spread it out evenly from edge to edge. This ensures every serving gets a generous portion of the savory meat. For another comforting beef dish, consider making our Sloppy Joe Casserole, also a family favorite!
• Second Layer of Potatoes: Carefully arrange the remaining half of the sliced or diced potatoes on top of the ground beef layer. Again, strive for an even spread to promote consistent cooking.
• Pour Soup Mixture: This is where the magic happens. Carefully pour the whisked cream of mushroom soup mixture evenly over the top layer of potatoes. Use a spatula or the back of your spoon to gently spread it, ensuring that all the potato pieces are covered as much as possible. This creamy blanket will tenderize the potatoes and bind the casserole.

6. Bake Covered:

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly tender potatoes. Placing the covered dish into your preheated oven allows the casserole to steam, ensuring the potatoes cook through properly without drying out or getting crispy too soon. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. To check for doneness, carefully insert a fork into the potatoes – if it goes in easily, they’re ready. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your potato slices/dice.

7. Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered:

Once the potatoes are tender, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Be cautious of the steam escaping! Now, it’s time for the delicious cheesy topping. Sprinkle the entire 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For a beautiful golden crust, ensure the cheese is spread from edge to edge. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be gloriously melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. The top of the casserole should also be nicely heated through and lightly caramelized. This final baking phase creates that irresistible cheesy crust that everyone loves.

8. Rest and Serve:

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to casseroles. Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes from the oven. Resist the urge to immediately dig in! Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period is vital: it allows the casserole to set slightly, making it much easier to scoop out neat portions without it falling apart. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld together even more beautifully, resulting in a richer, more cohesive taste. Serve warm and bask in the glory of your homemade, hearty Hobo Casserole! It’s truly a complete meal on its own, but a simple side salad or some crusty bread would be lovely accompaniments.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Your Hobo Casserole

The beauty of a classic like Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. This section offers practical tips to ensure your casserole is always a hit, along with creative variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. We’ll also touch on common pitfalls and how to avoid them, guaranteeing a perfect outcome every time.

Tips for Success:

• Uniform Potato Prep: This is arguably the most crucial tip. Whether you slice or dice your potatoes, aim for consistency in size and thickness (around ¼ inch for slices, ½ inch for dice). Inconsistent sizes will lead to uneven cooking, with some potatoes potentially remaining hard while others are perfectly tender. A mandoline slicer is excellent for perfectly uniform slices, saving time and ensuring even cooking.
• Drain the Grease Thoroughly: After browning your ground beef, it’s essential to drain off any excess grease. A greasy casserole can be unappetizing and heavy. Use a colander or tilt the skillet and spoon out the fat. This ensures the casserole remains savory and comforting without being oily.
• Don’t Skimp on Covering: When baking the casserole initially, ensure the aluminum foil is TIGHTLY sealed. This creates a steaming environment that tenderizes the potatoes efficiently. If steam escapes, the potatoes might dry out or take much longer to cook through.
• Freshly Shredded Cheese: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make it melt less smoothly and sometimes leave a slightly grainy texture. For the best melt and flavor, buy a block of cheddar (or your preferred cheese) and shred it yourself.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning in your ground beef mixture and soup mixture before assembly. Remember, potatoes soak up a lot of flavor, so proper seasoning from the start ensures a well-balanced dish.

Delicious Variations:

• Vegetable Boost: Enhance your ground beef and potato casserole with more veggies. In addition to peas or corn, consider adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of chopped spinach (added with the beef) for extra nutrients and color.
• Different Cheese, Different Flavor: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses. Colby Jack for a milder, creamier melt; Monterey Jack for a similar profile; or even a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a more Italian twist. A sprinkle of Parmesan at the end can add a salty, umami kick.
• Creamy Soup Alternatives: If cream of mushroom isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for condensed cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Each will give a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor profile to the sauce.
• Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture. A little smoked paprika can also add depth.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs. Thyme, rosemary, or dried parsley would complement the beef and potatoes beautifully. Add dried herbs with the soup mixture, and fresh herbs (chopped) after baking or with the beef.
• Meat Alternatives: While this is a Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes, you can certainly try it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful that leaner meats might require a bit more oil or broth to prevent dryness. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based ground crumbles or a hearty combination of lentils and mushrooms as the “meat” layer.
• Gluten-Free Version: Ensure your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free (some brands are) or make your own homemade cream of mushroom soup with a gluten-free thickener. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes:

• Potatoes are Still Hard:
  • Cause: Potatoes were sliced too thick, not cooked long enough, or foil wasn’t sealed properly.
  • Fix: Cover the casserole tightly with foil again and return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, checking for tenderness. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate.
• Casserole is Watery/Greasy:
  • Cause: Not enough grease drained from ground beef, or potatoes weren’t drained/patted dry after soaking.
  • Fix: While difficult to fully correct after baking, next time, be meticulous about draining the beef and drying the potatoes.
• Casserole Top is Burnt/Dry:
  • Cause: Cooked uncovered for too long, or oven temperature was too high.
  • Fix: Next time, ensure you cover for the majority of the baking time, and only uncover for the last 15-20 minutes to melt the cheese and brown the top. If the cheese is browning too fast, you can lightly tent it with foil even when uncovered.

By keeping these tips and variations in mind, your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes will not only be consistently delicious but also perfectly tailored to your preferences, making it a true family favorite for years to come. Explore more comforting casserole ideas, such as our Hamburger Green Bean Casserole, for another satisfying twist!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Hobo Casserole

Understanding the nutritional aspects of your meals is just as important as enjoying their taste. The Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is not just a delightful comfort food; it’s also a hearty, calorie-dense meal that provides significant nutritional benefits. While specific values can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes, we can break down the general nutritional profile and highlight the advantages of its key components.

A typical serving of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is designed to be filling and energy-rich. On average, a single serving might contain approximately 450-600 calories. This makes it a substantial meal, perfect for active individuals or as a main course for dinner. The caloric content is primarily derived from the ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, which contribute significantly to the energy density of the dish.

Key Nutritional Components:

• Protein (approx. 25-35g per serving): The ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Protein also helps promote satiety, keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
• Carbohydrates (approx. 40-50g per serving): Potatoes are the primary source of carbohydrates in this casserole, providing essential energy for your body and brain. They are a complex carbohydrate, offering sustained energy release rather than a quick sugar spike.
• Fats (approx. 20-30g per serving): The fat content comes mainly from the ground beef (especially 80/20 lean), cheese, and olive oil. Fats are crucial for hormone production, nutrient absorption (especially fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K), and providing a concentrated source of energy. While some of these fats are saturated, moderation and balancing with other healthier fat sources in your diet is key.
• Fiber (approx. 4-6g per serving): Potatoes, especially with their skins on (though peeled in this recipe, some fiber remains), and the optional peas or corn contribute to the fiber content. Dietary fiber aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to feelings of fullness.

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Ground Beef: Beyond being a great source of protein, ground beef (especially lean cuts) is rich in essential micronutrients. It provides significant amounts of:
  • Iron: Crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing anemia.
  • Zinc: Important for immune function and wound healing.
  • Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
  • Niacin (B3) and Riboflavin (B2): Play vital roles in energy metabolism.
• Potatoes: Often underestimated, potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are a good source of:
  • Potassium: Important for maintaining fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions.
  • Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports immune health.
  • Vitamin B6: Involved in brain development and function.
  • Complex Carbohydrates: Provide sustained energy.
• Onions and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables, while used in smaller quantities, offer valuable contributions:
  • Antioxidants: Both contain compounds that can help protect cells from damage.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Provide small amounts of Vitamin C, B vitamins, and manganese.
  • Flavor Enhancers: They allow you to reduce the need for excessive salt while still delivering robust taste.
• Cheese:
  • Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.
  • Protein: Adds to the overall protein content of the meal.
  • Vitamin D: Aids in calcium absorption.

In summary, Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a well-rounded meal that provides a significant boost of energy, protein, and essential micronutrients. It’s a complete meal in one dish, making it a practical and nourishing option for your family. While it is a comfort food, it delivers on the nutritional front by offering foundational elements for a healthy, active lifestyle.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Hobo Casserole

As we’ve journeyed through the simple yet profound delights of the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes, it’s clear that this dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary cornerstone for comfort, convenience, and community. From its humble origins to its consistent ability to bring smiles to dinner tables, this casserole embodies everything wonderful about homemade meals. We’ve explored why its ease of preparation makes it a weeknight hero, why its hearty flavors satisfy even the biggest appetites, and how its adaptable nature allows for endless customization to suit your family’s unique tastes.

The thoughtful layering of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, a rich, creamy sauce, and a golden crown of melted cheese culminates in a dish that is both nourishing and deeply comforting. It’s a complete meal in one pan, simplifying cleanup and maximizing enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary adventures, the straightforward steps and reliable results of this ground beef and potato casserole make it an accessible and rewarding experience. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, preparing for a busy week, or simply indulging in a warm, satisfying meal on a quiet evening.

We encourage you to make this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes a new tradition in your home. Experience the warmth it brings, the delicious aromas that fill your kitchen, and the joy of sharing a truly satisfying meal with loved ones. Don’t let another day go by without trying this classic. It’s a reminder that some of the best food is often the simplest, built on foundational ingredients that deliver immense flavor and comfort. So, preheat that oven, brown that beef, and get ready to create a casserole masterpiece that will be requested again and again. We can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this dish! After you try it, be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or share your delicious creations on social media. Your next favorite comfort food is just a few steps away!

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

This comforting Hobo Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make one-dish meal featuring savory ground beef and tender potatoes baked in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 lean recommended
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced (optional)
• 5 medium potatoes peeled and thinly sliced or diced (about 5-6 cups)
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup 10.5 ounce
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided (or your favorite cheese like Colby Jack)
• ½ cup frozen peas or corn optional, added with the ground beef mixture

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or a similar size casserole dish) with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. This will help prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
• Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, and the onion has softened, about 8-10 minutes. If using, stir in the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking until fragrant. Carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet, leaving just the browned meat and softened onions. If adding frozen peas or corn, stir them into the beef mixture now.
• While the beef is cooking, wash, peel, and thinly slice or dice your potatoes. Aim for uniform thickness (about ¼ inch) or size to ensure they cook evenly. You can place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning if preparing them ahead of time, then drain thoroughly before layering.
• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This will be the creamy sauce for your casserole.
• Assemble the Casserole in Layers: Spread half of the prepared thinly sliced or diced potatoes evenly across the bottom of your greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Try to create an even layer to ensure consistent cooking. Spoon the entire browned ground beef and onion (and optional vegetable) mixture over the first layer of potatoes, spreading it out evenly across the dish. Arrange the remaining half of the sliced or diced potatoes on top of the ground beef layer, again trying to make an even spread. Carefully pour the whisked cream of mushroom soup mixture evenly over the top layer of potatoes. Use a spatula to spread it gently to ensure all potatoes are covered as much as possible.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the covered dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Baking covered helps to steam the potatoes, ensuring they cook through properly without drying out.
• Once the potatoes are tender, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the entire 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the top of the casserole is nicely heated through.
• Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty Hobo Casserole!

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom. You can also add a pinch of paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture for extra depth. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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