Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Introduction

What if we told you that you could create a warm, hearty, family-style dinner using just one pan and pantry staples? 🥘 According to recent comfort food trends, casseroles like this Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) rank among America’s top 10 most-searched weeknight dinners — and for good reason. It’s simple, filling, budget-friendly, and irresistibly comforting.

This nostalgic hobo dinner casserole combines savory ground beef, layered potatoes, melted cheese, and a creamy sauce that ties it all together. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect recipe for cozy nights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat.

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Ingredients List

Gather your classic comfort-food essentials for this easy beef bake:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
• 4 cups russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Add-ins: sliced mushrooms, green beans, or corn for extra texture and flavor.

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Timing

⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 50 minutes
🍽️ Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Servings: 6

This dish bakes slightly longer than average casseroles, giving the potatoes time to soak up all that creamy beef flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

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

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet, heat olive oil and add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain any excess fat, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a small bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. This sauce will keep your casserole moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half the beef mixture, and a light sprinkle of cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and beef. Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

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Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	490 kcal
Protein	29 g
Fat	27 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	790 mg

💡 Insight: With its balanced mix of protein and carbs, this casserole provides long-lasting energy and comfort — ideal for cold evenings or post-work dinners.

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Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Replace beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Swap the cream soup for a homemade sauce made with low-fat milk and flour.
• Add spinach or broccoli layers for extra nutrients.
• Use reduced-fat cheese or half the amount to lower calories.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Hobo Casserole with:

• Steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a complete meal.
• A fresh garden salad to add crunch and contrast.
• Dinner rolls or buttery biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce.

For gatherings, serve it family-style straight from the dish — it’s rustic, cozy, and satisfying!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Undercooked potatoes: Always slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
• ❌ Skipping the drain step: Removing beef fat prevents greasy texture.
• ❌ Overbaking: Check after 45 minutes — potatoes should be tender, not mushy.
• ❌ Forgetting to cover early: Foil helps steam the potatoes before browning.

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Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze fully cooked casserole portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15 minutes or microwave individual servings.

This dish reheats beautifully and is perfect for next-day lunches or freezer meal prep.

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Conclusion

This Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe) is everything a weeknight dinner should be — easy, affordable, and comforting. With layers of beef, potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a nostalgic favorite reborn for modern home cooks.

👉 Try it tonight, share your results in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more hearty, family-style recipes from SarapCook!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make Hobo Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the layers and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use other soups besides cream of mushroom?
Absolutely — cream of chicken or celery soup works perfectly too.

Q3: What meat substitutes can I use?
Ground turkey, sausage, or plant-based beef crumbles are great options.

Q4: How do I get crispy potatoes on top?
Remove the foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking to brown the top.

Q5: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly in the oven for best results.