Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic ground beef hobo casserole is the ultimate comfort food. With layers of hearty ground beef, seasoned potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. Easy to assemble and packed with flavor, this dish is a family favorite that requires minimal effort but delivers big on taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Russet potatoes (thinly sliced)
Onion (sliced)
Cream of mushroom soup
Milk
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and black pepper
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Butter (melted)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Potatoes: Thinly slice the potatoes and spread half of them evenly in the baking dish.
Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Layer the Ingredients: Spread the cooked beef over the potatoes, then layer the sliced onions on top. Add the remaining potatoes.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk and melted butter. Pour evenly over the casserole.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen hash browns or sliced potatoes work well—just thaw before using.

What’s the best ground beef to use?

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.

Can I make this without cream of mushroom soup?

Yes! Substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade roux with butter, flour, and milk.

How do I keep the potatoes from getting mushy?

Slice them evenly and don’t overbake—just until they’re fork-tender.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

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

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cheese and replace milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free cream soup or make a homemade alternative.

What can I serve with hobo casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.

How do I add more crunch?

Top with crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions before baking.

Conclusion

Classic ground beef hobo casserole is a cozy, budget-friendly meal that brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying dinner. With layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Customize it to your taste, make it ahead for convenience, and enjoy a comforting homemade meal with minimal effort!