You ever have one of those nights where you’re just too tired to cook, but you still want something warm and hearty on the table? I get it! That’s why I’m so excited to share my go-to dish: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort meal, packed with layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. Super, super easy to prepare and a total family favorite. What more could you ask for?
Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
This casserole isn’t just about convenience; it’s packed with flavor and isn’t going to break the bank—perfect for those busy weeknights when the clock is ticking and the kids are hungry. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some yummy veggies in, if you want to toss in some mixed frozen veggies or fresh greens! Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day?
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef – this forms the hearty base of our casserole.
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced – they soak up all the flavors and make it filling.
- 1 onion, diced – for that classic savory flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite) – because, let’s be honest, everything’s better with cheese.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup – adds creaminess without extra effort!
- 1 cup beef broth – for moisture and flavor. Feel free to use low sodium!
- Salt and pepper to taste – simple seasonings go a long way.
- Optional: 1 cup mixed veggies (carrots, peas, corn) – makes it colorful and more nutritious!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’re gonna want that heat ready to go!
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Once the beef is browned, drain the excess grease. You want flavor, not a pool of fat!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with the sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and any optional veggies you’re using. Mix it all together until everything is coated and happy.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. When I say greased, I mean it! No one likes a stuck casserole.
- Top the whole thing with shredded cheese – the gooier, the better!
- Cover it with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for about 45 minutes. We want those potatoes to get nice and tender.
- After 45 minutes, take off the foil and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. So good.
- Once it’s done, let it rest for a few minutes before digging in. It’s gonna be hot!
Cooking Tips
Tip: Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken, or even add in different cheeses. And if you’re in a rush, pre-sliced or frozen potatoes can save you some time!
FAQs
What can I serve with Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes?
You can keep it simple with a side salad or some crusty bread! This casserole is so hearty that you might not even need anything else.
Can I make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
You betcha! Kids usually love the cheesy, beefy goodness, and you can sneak in some veggies without them batting an eye.
How do I store leftovers of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It also freezes well if you want to save some for later!
Now you have a fantastic recipe that brings comfort and flavor—all in one pan! So grab your apron and whip up this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes for a cozy home-cooked meal. I promise you won’t regret it!
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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This cozy and hearty Hobo Casserole is a family-friendly classic! Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s the perfect one-dish comfort meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 onion, diced
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion. Season with salt and pepper and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked beef and onions with sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and optional veggies. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top evenly with shredded cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
You can use frozen mixed veggies to save time — no need to thaw.
Slice potatoes thinly to ensure they cook through evenly.
Swap cream of mushroom with cream of chicken or celery if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy potato casserole, family dinner, one pan meal