Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Hi there! So, I have to tell you about this super yummy thing I made—it’s called Hobo Casserole. It’s like the easiest thing ever, and wow, it’s soooo good!

Okay, picture this: ground beef, cheesy goodness, and potatoes all baked together in one pan. I know, right? It’s perfect for when you’re hungry and don’t want to wait forever for food.

When I first made it, I couldn’t stop eating it. Seriously, every bite is warm and cheesy and just so comforting. Plus, it’s fun to make—you can help mix everything and sprinkle on the cheese!

Wanna try it? Let’s do this! You’ll love it, and everyone who tastes it will ask you to make it again. Trust me, it’s that good.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Family Favorite: Simple ingredients that everyone loves, making this casserole a family dinner hit.
• Flavorful & Filling: Savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar come together for a comforting meal.
• Quick & Easy to Make: Ready in 60 minutes with only a few prep steps.
• Versatile: You can add or subtract ingredients to fit your taste. You could even make it with chicken or turkey instead of beef!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch for the week ahead or freeze some for later.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, here are the kitchen tools you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: To cook the ground beef and onions.
• Casserole Dish: For baking the casserole to perfection.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the potatoes and onions.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy in your ingredients.
• Aluminum Foil (Optional): If you like a crispy top layer, foil will help you cover the casserole during baking.

Ingredients for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Here’s what you’ll need for the recipe:

Meat & Dairy:

• 1 lb Ground Beef: The star of the dish. You can use lean beef for a healthier option, but I recommend using regular ground beef for a richer flavor.
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded): A classic, sharp cheddar adds the perfect creamy melt and tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup Milk: This will make the casserole creamy and bring all the ingredients together.

Vegetables & Produce:

• 1 Medium Onion: Adds savory depth and sweetness.
• 4 Medium Potatoes: These are the base of the casserole, providing texture and a filling component. Make sure to slice them thinly for an even cook.

Canned Goods & Condiments:

• 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creates the creamy base and helps bind the casserole.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor that enhances the beef.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, seasoning is key!

Oils & Spices:

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the ground beef and onions.

Variations for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

One of the best parts about this recipe is how versatile it is! Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for a more colorful and nutrient-packed casserole.
• Use Different Meat: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage will work in place of ground beef. Ground beef tends to give the dish a heartier flavor, but turkey or chicken is lighter.
• Spicy Option: Add some heat with jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy cheddar cheese or add a bit of chili powder for an extra kick.
• Try Other Cheeses: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different cheese flavor.
• Herbs and Seasonings: If you love a more herby flavor, add thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process. Here’s how to make the perfect Hobo Casserole with ground beef:

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it time to heat up while you’re preparing the casserole.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Once browned, drain any excess grease from the beef, then stir in 1 medium chopped onion. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor. Stir everything together to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

• While the beef is cooking, wash and peel 4 medium potatoes. Slice them thinly into rounds—about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a mandolin slicer for even slices, which helps everything cook evenly in the casserole.
• If you want to speed up the cooking process, you can also microwave the potatoes for 5-6 minutes before assembling the casserole.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
• Begin by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the potatoes.
• Next, spread half of the cooked ground beef and onion mixture on top of the potatoes.
• Pour 1 can of cream of mushroom soup over the beef and potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
• Repeat the layers: top with the remaining potatoes, the rest of the ground beef mixture, and another can of soup.
• Pour 1/2 cup of milk over the top to add moisture and creaminess.

5. Add the Cheese

• Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a delicious, golden, cheesy crust.

6. Bake the Casserole

• Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the potatoes from drying out.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.
• Check the potatoes by piercing them with a fork. If they’re tender, the casserole is ready!

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
• Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal.

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

This casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving ideas to make it even better:

• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great side dish to cut through the richness of the casserole.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy casserole.
• Topped with Sour Cream or Hot Sauce: If you like a bit of extra flavor, top your casserole with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce.
• As a Meal Prep Option: Divide the casserole into individual servings and refrigerate for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled casserole in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Fact	Amount per Serving
Calories	400 kcal
Protein	25g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	500mg

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food: it’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With its combination of hearty beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or freezing for future meals. Plus, the recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your tastes.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish that will become a staple in your meal rotation. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you!

Hobo Casserole FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage are great alternatives. They will give the dish a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.

2. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer. For a homemade option, make a roux-based sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.

3. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but make sure to wash them thoroughly if you choose to keep the skin.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through.

6. Can I freeze Hobo Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. For unbaked casserole, wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. For baked leftovers, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

7. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To lighten up the recipe, use lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and a low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach.

8. My potatoes didn’t cook fully—what went wrong?
Ensure the potato slices are thin and even, about 1/8-inch thick. You can also microwave or parboil the potatoes for a few minutes before assembling the casserole to ensure they cook through.

9. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes will give the dish a sweeter flavor and pair well with the savory beef and cheese.

10. What side dishes go well with Hobo Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are also great for soaking up the cheesy goodness.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!