There’s something special about a baked casserole that fills your home with cozy, delicious smells — and this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef does exactly that. It’s hearty, cheesy, and loaded with comfort in every bite.
This recipe is a true classic — simple ingredients, big flavor, and minimal prep. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, it’s one of those “set it and forget it” dinners that everyone asks for seconds of.
Hobo Casserole with ground beef
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Hobo Casserole with ground beef is the ultimate cozy, budget-friendly dinner. It layers seasoned beef, thinly sliced potatoes, creamy soup, and melted cheese for a warm, family-style comfort meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 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 (or cream of chicken)
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook beef and onions in a skillet over medium heat until browned; drain excess grease. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Layer casserole: Place half the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish, then half the beef mixture. Repeat the layers.
Mix soup and milk in a bowl, then pour evenly over the layers.
Top with cheese and butter. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, drizzle melted butter, and cover with foil.
Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle paprika on top if desired.
Notes
- Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Try mixing cheeses like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for variety.
- Add vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Swap the soup for cream of chicken or cream of celery if you prefer.
- For an ultra-creamy version, stir ¼ cup sour cream into the soup mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
- Super easy to make – Just layer, bake, and enjoy.
- Budget-friendly – Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- Pure comfort food – Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
- Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or swap the soup flavor.
- Great for leftovers – It reheats beautifully the next day.
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Ingredients
- 1 lb 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 (or cream of chicken)
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef?
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Slice your potatoes thinly — about ⅛ inch thick — so they cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until browned and soft, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any grease. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
In your prepared dish:
- Add half the sliced potatoes in an even layer.
- Spoon half the ground beef mixture on top.
- Repeat the layers.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour it evenly over the layers, making sure it seeps into the casserole.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, drizzle with melted butter, and cover with foil.
Bake for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving — it’ll thicken and hold its shape better.
Helpful Tips For Perfect Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
- Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Try other cheeses like Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for extra flavor.
- Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie boost.
- For a creamier texture, mix in ¼ cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Want a crispy top? Broil for the last 2 minutes!
How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef?
Pair this Hobo Casserole with:
- A crisp green salad
- Buttered dinner rolls
- Or roasted vegetables for balance
It’s cozy, simple, and feels like a big warm hug after a long day.
How to Store Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef?
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or microwave single servings.
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work great for a leaner version.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes — assemble it a few hours early, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yep! Layer everything in your slow cooker and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
Related & Helpful Recipes
- Try this cozy favorite too: Red Lobster Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
- More casserole inspiration: Cheesy Beef & Potato Bake – Taste of Home
- Learn ground beef tips from Allrecipes
Final Thoughts
This Hobo Casserole with ground beef proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few pantry staples and a casserole dish, you can have a hearty, delicious meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s easy, affordable, and full of that “home-cooked” warmth we all love.
So grab your ingredients and bake up this Hobo Casserole with ground beef tonight — your family will thank you!
