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Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Hobo Casserole is a classic comfort-food dinner made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. Layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese come together in one cozy baked dish. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a warm, satisfying meal without much effort.

Ingredients

Scale

(Serves 4–6)

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep

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

Thinly slice the potatoes and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned and soft, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

  • Layer half of the potatoes in the baking dish

  • Top with half of the beef mixture

  • Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk until smooth. Pour evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and drizzle with melted butter.

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Uncover and bake 15 more minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with paprika if desired.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes thinly so they cook evenly and become tender

  • Cover tightly with foil during the first bake to trap steam

  • For extra flavor, add smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the beef

  • Make it richer by using whole milk instead of low-fat

  • Let it rest before slicing so layers hold together better