Hobo Casserole : Easy Ground Beef Recipe

Looking for a simple, hearty, and comforting meal? This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the perfect one-pan dinner that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor! Featuring juicy ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a family favorite that’s both budget-friendly and satisfying.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a quick and easy dinner after a long day, this dish is foolproof and can be customized to fit your preferences. The layers of flavors make every bite deliciously rich and satisfying.

Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or even cozy Sunday dinners, this classic comfort food will become a go-to in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and reheat!

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Simple & Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry ingredients and affordable ground beef.
One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings, add veggies, or swap proteins.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep and leftovers.

This Hobo Casserole is the definition of comfort food, offering rich, creamy layers and a satisfying bite every time. Plus, the savory beef and crispy potatoes create the perfect texture contrast!

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Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Equipment Used:

Large skillet
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board

Directions & Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and diced onions, cooking until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess fat.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

Layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
Spread the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth, then pour over the beef layer.

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4. Bake & Finish:

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

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Nutritional Information

Per serving:

Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 750mg

This dish is a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a hearty and filling meal. You can adjust ingredients for a lighter version by using lean ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese.

Prep Time and Cook Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations:

Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
Add Vegetables: Mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes! Thaw and pat dry frozen hash browns before layering them in the casserole.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F.

3. Can I make this ahead?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Pro Tips By Lyndy

Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin potato slices.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Shred cheese fresh for the best melting consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Pair with garlic bread or a warm dinner roll.
Add a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for extra flavor.