Hobo Casserole Ground Beef: Amazing Comfort Food

Name: Hobo Casserole Ground Beef: Amazing Comfort Food
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489729H46M43S
Total time: PT-489729H46M43S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ cup diced yellow onion (optional: bell peppers); 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (optional); ½–1 can evaporated milk or ¾ cup milk; 2–3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup French fried onions (optional); Seasonings: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce (per preference)

by basmer

9 de November de 2025

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Hobo casserole ground beef has been a go-to in my kitchen for years, ever since I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly busy college semester. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of savory beef, tender potatoes, and bubbling cheese filled my small apartment, making me instantly feel cozy and well-fed. This simple, stick-to-your-ribs dish is so satisfying, and the best part is how incredibly easy it is to throw together. It truly is the definition of comfort food ground beef. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a winner for so many reasons. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table.

It’s incredibly satisfying and hearty, perfect after a long day.
The combination of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce is simply delicious.
You’ll find this an easy hobocasserole ground beef recipe that requires minimal fuss.
It’s a fantastic budget friendly hobocasserole ground beef meal that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
Cleanup is a breeze since it’s largely a one-pan dish.
It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
This family friendly ground beef casserole is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Hobocasserole Ground Beef Ingredients

Gathering your hobocasserole ground beef ingredients is the first simple step to making magic in the kitchen. This recipe relies on pantry staples and fresh produce to create a delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty hobocasserole ground beef and potatoes dish:

1 lb lean ground beef – the savory foundation of our casserole.
½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper – essential seasonings to enhance the beef’s flavor.
½ cup diced yellow onion (optional: bell peppers) – adds a sweet aromatic base.
5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced – these become tender and creamy as they bake, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this provides a rich, creamy texture and earthy flavor.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (optional) – for an extra layer of creaminess and savory depth.
½–1 can evaporated milk or ¾ cup milk – helps to create the luscious sauce.
2–3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – for that irresistible cheesy topping and gooey layers throughout.
1 cup French fried onions (optional) – adds a delightful crunch and oniony flavor at the end.
Seasonings: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce (per preference) – feel free to customize with your favorite spices.

How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious hobo casserole recipe ground beef. This is truly a fantastic hobocasserole ground beef one pan wonder, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later.
Step 2: Grab a skillet and brown your 1 lb lean ground beef over medium heat. Season it with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and your ½ cup diced yellow onion (and optional bell pepper). Cook until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are tender. Drain off any excess fat – this keeps the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Begin assembling your casserole by arranging a single layer of your 5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced, in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. I like to overlap them just a bit.
Step 4: Spoon about half of your seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the potato layer. The savory aroma starting to fill your kitchen is a good sign!
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, the optional 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, your ½–1 can evaporated milk or ¾ cup milk, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce. Pour half of this creamy sauce mixture over the beef layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle about half of your 2–3 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce. This creates a gooey layer of cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Repeat the layers: add the remaining sliced potatoes, followed by the rest of the ground beef mixture, then the remaining creamy sauce, and finally, the rest of the shredded cheese.
Step 8: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is crucial for steaming the potatoes and ensuring they become perfectly tender. Bake for 60–90 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. The exact time will depend on how thinly you sliced your potatoes.
Step 9: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil. If you’re using them, scatter the 1 cup French fried onions over the top. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the fried onions are golden brown and crispy.
Step 10: Let your hobocasserole ground beef baked masterpiece rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve neat portions. Enjoy this delightful hobocasserole ground beef!

Pro Tips for the Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

To elevate your hobocasserole ground beef from good to absolutely amazing, try these little tricks. They ensure a delicious outcome every time you make this comforting dish.

Slice your potatoes uniformly thin. This is key for even cooking and a creamy texture.
Don’t skip draining the fat from the ground beef. It makes for a cleaner, less greasy casserole.
Taste your soup mixture before pouring it over the layers. You can adjust seasonings like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce to your liking.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the soup mixture.

What’s the secret to perfect hobocasserole ground beef?

The magic lies in thinly slicing the potatoes and allowing them to steam in the creamy soup mixture. This makes them incredibly tender. For an even more simple hobocasserole ground beef, use pre-shredded cheese. You can find more tips on preparing ingredients on our latest recipes page.

Can I make hobocasserole ground beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, up to the point of baking, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with hobocasserole ground beef?

The most common pitfall is not cooking the potatoes long enough. Ensure they are fork-tender before uncovering. Also, don’t overcook the ground beef initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Lastly, drain the grease from the beef well! For more information on cooking ground beef, check out this guide on ground meat recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

This hearty hobocasserole ground beef is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. For a fresh contrast, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. This cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. If you’re looking to incorporate more greens, consider a simple steamed or roasted dish of hobocasserole ground beef and vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A side of crusty bread is also wonderful for soaking up any extra cheesy sauce. It’s a true homestyle ground beef casserole experience!

Nutrition Facts for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

This hobo casserole ground beef is a satisfying meal, and here’s a look at its nutritional breakdown per serving. It’s a hearty dish that provides a good balance of macronutrients.

Calories: 504 kcal
Fat: 31 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 4 g
Protein: 33 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sodium: 808 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

This delicious hobo casserole ground beef is a perfect make-ahead meal, ideal for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, home-cooked dish without the fuss. Once your comfort food ground beef casserole has finished baking, let it cool down for about 15-20 minutes before storing. This helps prevent steam buildup, which can make leftovers soggy.

For refrigeration, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you need to store it for longer, this casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating is simple! For refrigerated portions, you can gently reheat them in the microwave or in a moderate oven (around 325°F or 160°C) until warmed through. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, reheat as you would the refrigerated leftovers. You might need to add a few extra minutes for reheating from frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

What is hobocasserole ground beef?

Hobo casserole ground beef is a hearty, homestyle American dish that typically combines ground beef, potatoes, and a creamy sauce, all baked together. It’s known for being a simple, budget-friendly, and comforting meal, often made in one pan, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners. The name “hobo” often refers to its humble ingredients and straightforward preparation.

How to make hobocasserole ground beef without cream soups?

If you’re out of cream soups, you can still make a delicious ground beef hobocasserole! Whisk together milk or broth with a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch. Add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs. Some people also use a béchamel sauce as a base for a wonderfully creamy alternative. For more sauce ideas, explore our homemade seasoning mix recipes.

Can I use sweet potatoes in my hobocasserole ground beef?

Yes, you absolutely can! Substituting sweet potatoes for russets in your hobo casserole recipe ground beef adds a lovely sweetness and a beautiful color. Just be sure to slice them thinly and evenly, similar to how you would russet potatoes, to ensure they cook through properly.

Is this a one pot ground beef casserole?

While the beef is browned in a skillet, the main assembly and baking of this hobocasserole ground beef happen in a single baking dish, minimizing overall cleanup. So, it’s very close to a true one-pot meal, making it incredibly convenient for busy cooks!

Variations of Hobo Casserole Ground Beef You Can Try

This classic hobocasserole ground beef is wonderfully adaptable! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes and dietary needs, here are a few variations you might love. They all maintain that comforting, homestyle feel but offer a fresh twist.

Tater Tot Hobocasserole Ground Beef: For an ultra-kid-friendly and even easier version, skip the potato slices and top the beef and sauce mixture with a layer of frozen tater tots before baking. This creates a fun, crunchy topping that’s a guaranteed hit!
Vegetarian Hobocasserole Ground Beef: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles, lentils, or a hearty mix of mushrooms and beans. You’ll still get that satisfying, creamy casserole experience without the meat.
Spicy Hobocasserole Ground Beef: Add a kick by incorporating diced jalapeños into the beef mixture or by using a spicy cheese blend like pepper jack. A dash of hot sauce in the creamy sauce can also elevate the heat.
Cheesy Chicken Hobocasserole Ground Beef: While this recipe focuses on beef, you can easily substitute cooked, shredded chicken for the ground beef. This offers a slightly lighter, yet equally delicious, take on the homestyle ground beef casserole. You might enjoy our easy chicken salad recipe for another chicken option.