There's something comforting about a hearty, no-fuss meal that everyone loves. Hobo Casserole, made with ground beef, delivers just that. Layers of savory flavors come together with minimal effort, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
I discovered this recipe when searching for an easy way to stretch simple ingredients into a meal that would satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Now, it's a household staple, and I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to recipes, too.
Why You'll Love This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
Get ready to discover a recipe that’s as convenient as it is delicious. This Hobo Casserole is the perfect combination of affordability, ease, and comfort.
First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal on the table in under an hour. It’s a lifesaver when time is short, but you still want something home-cooked.
Second, it’s a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd. Using ground beef as the main protein keeps costs low while ensuring the dish is satisfying and flavorful.
Third, the casserole is a family favorite that’s highly adaptable. You can customize it with vegetables, spices, or cheeses to suit your taste or make use of what you already have on hand.
Lastly, the layered structure makes it fun to serve and even more fun to eat. Every bite is packed with seasoned meat, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, versatile ingredients. Each component works together to create a delicious, well-rounded dish.
Ground beef is the star of the show. Use an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer leaner options, just add a touch of oil during cooking to keep the meat juicy.
Cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and depth. It’s the secret to a rich casserole base. If you’re not a fan, cream of chicken soup works beautifully as an alternative.
Russet potatoes form the hearty foundation of this dish. Slicing them thinly ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the flavors. You could also substitute them with Yukon Golds for a creamier texture.
Cheddar cheese ties everything together with its melt-in-your-mouth goodness. A sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Onions and garlic bring aromatic depth to the dish. Dice the onions finely so they blend seamlessly into the ground beef layer.
No special equipment is required—just a sharp knife, a large skillet, and a baking dish are all you need to bring this recipe to life.
How To Make This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

This recipe is straightforward and comes together in a few easy steps. Here’s how to make it:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats up, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added warmth.
Once the beef is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and softened. This step ensures the base of your casserole is packed with flavor.
Grease a baking dish lightly and start layering. Begin with thinly sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly to create an even layer. Spread half of the cream of mushroom soup over the potatoes, followed by a layer of the cooked beef. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This not only makes it easier to portion but also allows the layers to set beautifully.
Storage Options
Leftovers? You’re in luck! This casserole stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
To refrigerate, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
For freezing, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
If you’ve already baked the casserole and want to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers. Reheat directly from frozen in the microwave or oven for a convenient meal.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and a pop of color.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a slightly sweet and earthy twist.
- Top the casserole with crispy fried onions for added crunch and flavor.
- Mix in a handful of frozen peas or corn to make the dish more colorful and balanced.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices, cheeses, or additional toppings. This is the kind of recipe that adapts beautifully to your personal preferences.
Hobo Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to the table with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family dinner or preparing ahead for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!
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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Discover the ultimate Hobo Casserole recipe with ground beef, layered potatoes, and melted cheese. Perfect for an easy and hearty dinner that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef with diced onions until browned; drain excess fat. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grease a casserole dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the cream of mushroom soup over the beef layer, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup, and cheese.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top layer. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor.
- Add vegetables like green beans or corn for extra nutrition.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery if preferred.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
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