Easy Hobo Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Easy Hobo Casserole because it uses pantry staples and requires minimal prep. It’s a great way to feed a family on a budget while delivering classic, comforting flavors. With layers of beef, potatoes, and creamy goodness, it’s a one-dish meal that hits the spot. Plus, it’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and makes delicious leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Milk
• Onion, diced
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Olive oil or butter (for greasing)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
3. In a skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish.
6. Add half of the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
7. Pour half of the soup mixture on top.
8. Repeat the layers: potatoes, beef, then remaining soup.
9. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
10. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 75–85 minutes
Rest time: 5–10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Include sliced carrots, mushrooms, or frozen green beans in the layers for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Soup: Cream of chicken or cream of celery can be used in place of mushroom soup.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix some cheese into the soup mixture for extra cheesiness throughout.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef for a spicier version.
• Ground Turkey or Sausage: Swap the beef for turkey or sausage for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in 1–2 minute intervals until hot.
• Freezer: Freeze baked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Why is it called “Hobo Casserole”?

It’s a term from older times referring to a simple, hearty meal made with whatever ingredients were available—affordable, easy, and filling.

Can I slice the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, but store them in water in the fridge to prevent browning until ready to assemble the casserole.

Do I need to cook the potatoes first?

No, slicing them thinly ensures they cook fully during baking.

Can I use hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, thawed hash browns can be layered in place of sliced potatoes for a quicker version.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend also work well.

Can I add herbs or spices?

Absolutely—try thyme, parsley, or paprika for added flavor.

Will this recipe double well for a larger crowd?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two separate dishes and extend the baking time slightly if needed.

How do I keep the cheese from burning?

Add the cheese during the last 10–15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

It can be if you use a gluten-free condensed soup or make your own substitute.

Conclusion

Easy Hobo Casserole is the ultimate in affordable comfort food. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals in advance, this classic casserole delivers every time.

Easy Hobo Casserole

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Easy Hobo Casserole is a budget-friendly, layered comfort food dish made with ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for feeding a hungry family.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75–85 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4–5 medium Russet or Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Olive oil or butter (for greasing baking dish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned. Drain excess fat and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
4. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with half of the ground beef mixture, then half of the soup mixture.
6. Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
7. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Add sliced mushrooms, green beans, or carrots for extra veggies.
• Use cream of chicken or celery soup for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicier with chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg