Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines hearty ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender potatoes into a satisfying one-pan meal. Originating from the simple, frugal cooking methods of “hobo” culture during the early 20th century, this dish takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a delicious and nostalgic dinner option.

This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for an easy, budget-friendly meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy topping create a casserole that’s comforting, filling, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Let’s dive into how to make this easy Hobo Casserole, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make it the ultimate comfort meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and basic kitchen items, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and cheese creates a luscious, savory flavor.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings to make it your own.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients while delivering hearty, satisfying portions.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it ahead of time and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Layer:

• 1 pound ground beef (lean or medium-lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Potato Layer:

• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Slice and Season the Potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes (if desired), then slice them thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline. In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and thyme (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Arrange the potato slices in overlapping layers on top of the ground beef.
• Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the potato layer, ensuring it coats all the slices.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

Ingredient Background

Ground Beef

Ground beef is a versatile and affordable protein that forms the hearty base of this casserole. Its rich, savory flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender potatoes.

Potatoes

Potatoes are the star carbohydrate in this dish, adding substance and texture. Thinly slicing them ensures even cooking and allows them to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

This pantry staple provides the creamy foundation of the casserole. Its savory mushroom flavor complements the beef and potatoes beautifully.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese adds a rich, gooey topping that ties the entire dish together. Opt for sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.

Technique Tips

Thin and Even Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for consistently thin potato slices, ensuring they cook evenly.

Drain the Beef: Removing excess grease from the cooked ground beef prevents the casserole from becoming too oily.

Season Each Layer: Lightly season the beef, potatoes, and sauce to build layers of flavor throughout the casserole.

Check for Doneness: Insert a fork or knife into the center of the casserole to ensure the potatoes are tender before serving.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Mini Casseroles: Divide the ingredients among individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for single-serving portions.

Layered Style: Alternate layers of potatoes and ground beef for a visually appealing presentation.

Skillet Casserole: Prepare the entire casserole in an oven-safe skillet for a rustic, one-pan meal.

Additional Tips for Success

Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Extra Creamy: For an ultra-rich version, double the sauce ingredients or add 1/4 cup of cream cheese to the sauce mixture.

Crispy Top: If you prefer a crispy topping, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes after adding the cheese.

Recipe Variations

Vegetable Hobo Casserole: Add layers of thinly sliced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Spicy Version: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the beef mixture and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Bacon Ranch Hobo Casserole: Mix cooked, crumbled bacon and ranch seasoning into the beef layer, and use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the topping.

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lean Protein: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Whole Wheat Flour: Replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using whole wheat flour and low-fat milk for a healthier sauce.

Reduced Fat: Use reduced-fat sour cream, milk, and cheese to cut down on calories and saturated fat.

More Veggies: Double the vegetables for added fiber and nutrients. Sweet potatoes or parsnips can also be used in place of regular potatoes.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Family Dinner: Serve Hobo Casserole with a side of roasted green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Holiday Gatherings: Add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions to the topping for a festive touch, perfect for potlucks or family celebrations.

Meal Prep: Portion the casserole into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Special Equipment

Mandoline Slicer: Ensures thin, uniform potato slices for even cooking.

Large Skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef and cooking the aromatics.

9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Provides the perfect size and depth for layering the casserole ingredients evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
   Yes, frozen hash browns or sliced potatoes can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed and drained before assembling the casserole.
2. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
   You can make a homemade version by whisking together 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1/4 cup of chicken or vegetable stock.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, use dairy-free sour cream, milk, and cheese alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.
4. Why are my potatoes not tender?
   If the potatoes are too thick, they may take longer to cook. Slice them thinner and ensure they are fully coated with the sauce.
5. Can I add other cheeses?
   Absolutely! Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
6. How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
   Drain the ground beef well and avoid using potatoes with too much moisture. Pat them dry before layering.
7. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
   Yes, sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor and pair well with the savory sauce and cheese.
8. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a dish that’s hearty, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. Its versatility makes it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and meal prepping, while the rich flavors and gooey cheese ensure it’s a hit with everyone at the table.

With easy-to-follow steps and room for customization, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves traditional casseroles with a modern twist. Whether you’re keeping it classic or experimenting with variations, Hobo Casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Try this recipe today and experience the nostalgia and deliciousness of this timeless dish—it’s comfort food at its finest!

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