Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There's something magical about the comforting simplicity of Hobo Casserole. This hearty ground beef recipe brings together layers of tender potatoes, creamy soup, and seasoned beef in one warm, satisfying dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening.

this Recipe

I first tried Hobo Casserole when looking for a quick, no-fuss dinner idea, and it quickly became a favorite in our house. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd. Let's dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Get ready to add a new staple to your dinner rotation! This Hobo Casserole is a deliciously simple way to create a meal your whole family will love.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of common pantry staples and minimal prep, you can have this casserole in the oven in no time.

Second, it’s a budget-friendly meal. Ground beef and potatoes are affordable ingredients, and the recipe stretches to feed the entire family with ease.

Plus, it’s versatile. You can customize it with your favorite seasonings, vegetables, or even cheese for a dish that fits your preferences perfectly.

Finally, it’s pure comfort food. The combination of creamy soup, savory beef, and soft potatoes is classic, nostalgic, and always satisfying.

Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that make this casserole so special.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Hobo Casserole lies in its simplicity. With just a few humble ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.

Ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken also work well as substitutes.

Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe because they hold their shape well and cook to a creamy texture. Thinly slice them to ensure even cooking.

Cream of mushroom soup: This pantry staple provides a rich and creamy base for the casserole. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are great alternatives.

Onion: Sliced onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. For a milder taste, you can use yellow onions.

Seasonings: A simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder brings the dish together. Feel free to add paprika, thyme, or your favorite herbs for extra flavor.

You’ll also need a baking dish and some aluminum foil to assemble and bake your casserole.

How To Make This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all levels. Here’s how to create this hearty casserole step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, brown your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Next, prepare your potatoes. Wash and peel them, then slice them into thin, even rounds. A mandoline slicer can make this step quick and easy, but a sharp knife works just as well.

Layer the casserole in your baking dish. Start with a layer of potato slices, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle some of the sliced onions on top, then add a layer of ground beef. Spread a portion of the cream of mushroom soup over the beef. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of soup on top.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the potatoes cook through. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the top brown slightly.

Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to scoop out servings.

Storage Options

Hobo Casserole stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Then, microwave them or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese between the layers for a gooey, melty upgrade.
• Vegetable boost: Add layers of thinly sliced carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to sneak in extra veggies.
• Herbaceous flair: Mix dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the cream soup for added depth of flavor.
• Meat swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different protein option.
• Different soups: Experiment with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even cheddar cheese soup for a new flavor profile.

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients—this casserole is all about making comfort food your way!

Hobo Casserole is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—perfect for feeding your family with minimal fuss. Give it a try tonight and watch it become an instant favorite!

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