Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole baking in the oven—its familiar aroma filling the kitchen, promising a hearty meal that brings everyone to the table. This Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) is one of those timeless, no-frills dishes that proves you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create a meal that satisfies on every level.

Built from simple pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese, this casserole has been a family favorite for generations. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and wonderfully adaptable, making it ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, potlucks, or make-ahead meal prep.

What truly sets this dish apart is its humble charm. The name “hobo casserole” reflects its roots as a practical, economical meal—one that stretches ingredients while delivering comfort and flavor. Over the years, it has earned a permanent place in home kitchens across the country, evolving slightly with each household while staying true to its comforting core.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)—from step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to variations, storage advice, and serving ideas. Whether you’re cooking it for the first time or revisiting a nostalgic favorite, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

There are countless reasons this dish has stood the test of time, but here are the biggest ones that keep people coming back to it again and again.

It’s Comfort Food at Its Best

Few meals deliver the same cozy satisfaction as a layered casserole. Tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy sauce meld together during baking to create a soft, rich texture that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

This Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) relies on everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Despite its simplicity, the combination of seasoned beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheese creates a depth of flavor that tastes far more indulgent than the ingredient list suggests.

Budget-Friendly and Filling

Ground beef and potatoes are among the most affordable and filling ingredients available. This dish feeds a family generously without straining your grocery budget, making it perfect for economical meal planning.

Easy to Customize

From adding vegetables to switching cheeses or seasonings, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. You can keep it classic or tailor it to your family’s tastes without compromising the comforting essence of the dish.

Ideal for Make-Ahead Meals

You can assemble this casserole in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when needed. That makes it an excellent option for busy households, meal prep, or hosting guests.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 60 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Cuisine: American

• Course: Main Dish

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Ingredients for Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

This recipe keeps things straightforward while ensuring maximum comfort and flavor.

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup milk

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

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Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

Understanding your ingredients helps you get the best possible results.

Ground Beef

Lean ground beef works well, but you can also use regular ground beef and drain the excess fat. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version.

Potatoes

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal. Slice them thinly and evenly so they cook through completely. A mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent thickness.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

This classic ingredient provides creaminess and depth. You can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if preferred.

Cheese

Cheddar offers a sharp, comforting flavor, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar-mozzarella blend work beautifully as well.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds. Consistent slicing is key to even cooking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion for 5–7 minutes until browned and softened. Drain excess grease. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to distribute the flavors evenly.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the seasoned ground beef. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and beef.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the casserole, allowing it to seep into the layers.

5. Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and drizzle with melted butter. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

6. Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with paprika if desired.

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Tips for the Best Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

• Slice potatoes thinly: Thick slices may remain undercooked.

• Season generously: Potatoes absorb seasoning, so don’t be shy.

• Cover first, uncover later: This ensures tender potatoes and a golden top.

• Let it rest: Resting improves texture and flavor.

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Popular Variations

One of the best things about this Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) is how easily it adapts.

Cheesy Bacon Version

Add cooked, crumbled bacon between the layers and sprinkle extra cheese on top.

Vegetable-Loaded Casserole

Layer in sliced mushrooms, frozen corn, peas, or green beans for added nutrition.

Creamier Version

Replace half the milk with sour cream for a richer sauce.

Spicy Twist

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with lighter sides creates a balanced meal.

• Crisp green salad with vinaigrette

• Steamed green beans or broccoli

• Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts

• Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Print

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 465 kcal

• Protein: 26 g

• Carbohydrates: 34 g

• Fat: 25 g

• Fiber: 4 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hobo Casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Why are my potatoes still firm?

They may be sliced too thick. Make sure slices are thin and evenly layered.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, thin frozen potato slices can work, but adjust baking time if needed.

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Final Thoughts

This Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) is a perfect example of why simple, old-fashioned meals never go out of style. It’s hearty without being heavy, affordable without feeling cheap, and easy enough for beginners while still satisfying seasoned home cooks. Every bite delivers layers of comfort—savory beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese—all baked together into a dish that feels familiar and reassuring.

What makes this casserole truly special is its versatility. It adapts effortlessly to what you have on hand, making it ideal for reducing food waste and stretching your grocery budget. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, preparing meals ahead of time, or bringing a dish to share, this recipe rises to the occasion every time.