Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe – A Hearty & Comforting Meal!

If you’re looking for a simple, hearty, and budget-friendly meal, this Easy Hobo Casserole is perfect! Made with ground beef, creamy soup, crispy potatoes, and melted cheese, this dish is warm, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.

It’s an all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole will become a go-to favorite in your home!

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Ingredients for Hobo Casserole

the Casserole:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• 3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Garnishing (Optional):

• Chopped parsley
• Extra shredded cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

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

2. Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (5-7 minutes).
2. Drain excess grease and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
2. Stir until smooth and set aside.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish.
2. Spread the cooked beef evenly over the potatoes.
3. Pour the creamy soup mixture over the beef.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

5. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

• Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese, then serve warm!

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Hobo Casserole

Thinly slice the potatoes – This ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
Let it rest before serving – This helps the flavors meld together.
Add extra veggies – Try layering in mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for more nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the foil – Covering the casserole while baking keeps the potatoes tender.
Using too much liquid – Stick to the recommended amount for the perfect consistency.
Not draining the beef – Excess grease can make the casserole too oily.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with a side salad for a fresh contrast.
• Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with a touch of sour cream for extra richness.

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 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Freezing:

• Freeze the casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Try different cheeses – Gouda or Monterey Jack work great!

What to Serve with Hobo Casserole

• Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables
• Coleslaw or a fresh cucumber salad
• Mashed sweet potatoes for a sweet contrast

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned potatoes?

Yes! Canned sliced potatoes can save time, just be sure to drain them well.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready.

Can I use a different soup?

Absolutely! Cream of chicken or cream of celery also work well.

Conclusion

This Easy Hobo Casserole is a delicious, budget-friendly comfort food that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Try it today and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy casserole recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

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

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves: 6

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