Easy & Hearty Hobo Casserole – A Budget-Friendly Comfort Meal!

If you’re looking for a simple, comforting, and budget-friendly meal, this Hobo Casserole is a perfect choice! Made with seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, crispy potatoes, and melted cheese, this casserole is a one-dish wonder that requires minimal effort. It’s great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prepping. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a delicious, filling meal the whole family will love!

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Ingredients for Hobo Casserole

the Casserole Base:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

the Potato Layer:

• 2 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika

the Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or butter.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned (5-7 minutes).
2. Drain excess grease, then season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and remove from heat.

3. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick) for even cooking.
2. In a bowl, toss the slices with olive oil, salt, and paprika.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Layer the sliced potatoes over the beef, slightly overlapping them.
3. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

5. Add the Cheese & Finish Baking

1. Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
2. Bake uncovered for 10-15 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Garnish with dried parsley before serving.

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Hobo Casserole

• Slice potatoes thinly – This ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
• Season each layer – Don’t forget to season both the beef and potatoes for the best flavor.
• Use different cheeses – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for a unique twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the foil – Covering the casserole helps the potatoes cook properly before crisping up.
• Using thick potato slices – If they’re too thick, they may stay firm instead of softening.
• Not draining excess grease – This prevents the casserole from becoming greasy.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a side salad for a fresh contrast.
• Pair with steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
• Drizzle with sour cream or hot sauce for added flavor.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Swap potatoes for tater tots – For an extra crispy twist.
• Use ground turkey – A leaner alternative to beef.

What to Serve with Hobo Casserole

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Coleslaw or roasted vegetables
• Mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory contrast

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

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

Can I freeze Hobo Casserole?

Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes! Frozen hash browns or sliced potatoes work well—just thaw them first.

Conclusion

This Hobo Casserole is a quick, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With savory ground beef, creamy sauce, crispy potatoes, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that’s both budget-friendly and family-approved. Try it today and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 450 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings).

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves: 6

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