Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. It’s a no-fuss, hearty comfort dish that brings together pantry staples in the most delicious way. The combination of creamy, cheesy layers with seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes creates a one-dish dinner that everyone at the table will love.

What makes this casserole even better is how easy it is to pull together. You don’t need fancy ingredients or a long prep list. It’s the sort of recipe you can throw together with what’s already in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, hungry teens, or just need a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights, this dish has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole

This casserole checks all the boxes: it’s affordable, filling, and full of comforting flavors. The creamy soup base mixed with melted cheese pairs perfectly with the crispy edges of the baked potatoes. It also freezes well, reheats like a dream, and can be easily customized depending on what you have on hand.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For best results, go with russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Russets become tender and soak up flavors beautifully while still holding their shape. Yukon Golds bring a buttery texture that works well in casseroles. Avoid red potatoes as they tend to be waxy and less absorbent of the creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

To bring out the richness of this comforting meal, each ingredient plays a special role. The beef builds the savory base, the potatoes provide the starchy body, and the creamy soup and cheese tie everything together.

• Ground beef
• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Milk
• Cheddar cheese
• Onion
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Butter or oil for greasing

How To Make the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Layer

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Wash and thinly slice the potatoes. Keep the slices as even as possible to ensure they cook evenly in the casserole.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This will be your creamy binder for the layers.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin by layering half of the potato slices, then spread half of the cooked beef mixture on top. Pour over some of the creamy sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Repeat the layers and finish with a final sprinkle of cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 50 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serving and Storing Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

This casserole serves about 6 people generously. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; just reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What to Serve With Hobo Casserole?

Green Bean Almondine

A bright and nutty green bean dish balances the richness of the casserole.

Homemade Biscuits

Flaky biscuits make the perfect companion to soak up every last bit of the sauce.

Simple Garden Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds a crunchy contrast and lightens up the meal.

Roasted Carrots

Sweet and tender roasted carrots bring natural sweetness and color.

Steamed Broccoli

A classic side that never fails with cheesy casseroles.

Apple Coleslaw

A tangy slaw with apples adds a refreshing, crisp bite.

Garlic Bread

Who doesn’t love cheesy garlic bread with a warm, hearty casserole?

Corn on the Cob

A buttery corn cob is a sweet and savory side that pairs well with potatoes.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Hobo Casserole, here are more cozy meals you might want to try next:

• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a veggie-packed favorite.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti with gooey layers for pasta lovers.
• Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake for something extra cheesy.
• Mexican Sopa de Conchas if you’re in the mood for comforting soup.
• Easy Baked Burrito Casserole for a zesty twist on taco night.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a layer of veggies or try a spicy cheese blend?

I always love hearing your kitchen experiments. And if you have questions, feel free to drop them below.

Explore more comforting, budget-friendly meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite casserole idea! Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the perfect answer to busy weeknights and hungry families. It’s simple, satisfying, and filled with everything we love about home-cooked comfort food. From the creamy sauce to the hearty beef and soft potatoes, this dish is a timeless classic you’ll keep coming back to.

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