Description
This hearty Hobo Casserole is a comforting ground beef and potato dish layered with a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk, mixing until the sauce is smooth and well incorporated.
- Layer the Ingredients: Start by laying half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the greased baking dish. Next, spread half of the seasoned ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the creamy mushroom sauce evenly on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, ground beef mixture, and mushroom sauce.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This melts the cheese and creates a golden, bubbly crust.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- For thinner potatoes slices, use a mandoline for even cooking.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for different flavors.
- Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture enhances the flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the ground beef.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps prevent it from falling apart when cut.
