If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is your new best friend. This classic dish combines tender, browned ground beef with thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheddar cheese for a casserole that’s bursting with comforting flavors and inviting textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a simple but hearty option that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this homemade casserole. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing to the overall harmony of taste, texture, and rich color that makes this dish so memorable.
- 1 lb ground beef: The flavorful protein base packed with savory goodness and juiciness.
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced: These add heartiness and a creamy texture when baked to tender perfection.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth of flavor when cooked with the beef.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings creamy richness and that classic casserole taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a golden, bubbly, and cheesy topping everyone loves.
- ½ cup milk: Ensures a smooth consistency and moist layers.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted: Adds a luscious, buttery finish and keeps the potatoes from drying out.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning each layer perfectly.
- Optional: parsley or chives for garnish: For a fresh pop of color and subtle brightness on top.
How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This preheating step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and the butter will help create a deliciously golden crust on the edges.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
In a hot skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Stir frequently until the meat is crumbly and fully cooked, then carefully drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being too oily. Season this hearty mix with salt and pepper to build a savory base layer of flavor.
Step 3: Build the Layers
Now you get to assemble the magic. Spread your cooked beef and onion evenly at the bottom of the dish. Next, dollop and spread the cream of mushroom soup over the beef for that lush, creamy texture. Then add a layer of thinly sliced potatoes, covering the beef and soup completely. Pour the melted butter on top and season with salt and pepper again to enhance every bite.
Step 4: Add Milk and Cheese
Pour the milk gently over all the layers to create moisture and help everything meld together during baking. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously across the top. This step promises an irresistibly gooey and golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and bake it for 45-50 minutes. This will allow the potatoes to soften and the flavors to harmonize beautifully. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, which lets the cheese get that perfect melted, bubbly, and lightly browned finish.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a few minutes to rest—this helps it set up so it’s easier to serve. If you want to add some fresh flair, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives just before serving to lift the dish with a fresh, vibrant note. The green contrast also makes the warm tones of the cheese and potatoes look even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp, green salads or lightly steamed veggies, balancing the rich and hearty flavors with a touch of freshness and crunch. Consider serving it alongside some roasted carrots or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets straight from the oven. This adds a personal touch and makes the comforting casserole feel a bit more elevated and special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making leftovers just as tasty, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, then remove foil during the last few minutes to restore that golden cheese crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a classic flavor and color, you can swap in mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some spicy kick. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based beef alternative. Just follow the same layering process, and it’ll still deliver on comfort and flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas with the beef mixture for extra nutrition, color, and taste. Just sauté them with the onions before layering.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you want to skip canned soup, try making a quick homemade mushroom sauce with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, cream, and broth. It offers fresher flavor and more control over ingredients.
How thin should I slice the potatoes?
Very thin slices work best, around â…› inch thick. Thin slices bake evenly and become tender without leaving you with hard or crunchy bites in the finished casserole.
Final Thoughts
The Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never fails to please. It’s simple to prepare, uses basic ingredients you likely already have on hand, and results in a hearty, soul-warming meal perfect for any day of the week. I genuinely hope you’ll give this recipe a try and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite with the people you love.
Print
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Hobo Casserole with ground beef, layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Optional: parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole won’t stick.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked ground beef mixture evenly, then spread the cream of mushroom soup over it. Add a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on top and drizzle the melted butter over the potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Cheese: Pour the milk evenly over the layers. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top to give the casserole a rich, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake for 45-50 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and the potatoes to become tender.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch before serving.
Notes
- Thinly slicing the potatoes ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Draining excess grease from the beef prevents a greasy casserole.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or chicken soup if preferred.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika when seasoning the beef.
- Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set for easier slicing and serving.
