Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a simple, one-pan meal that’s hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. It combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a blend of vegetables, all baked together in a flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something easy to make and satisfying to eat. It’s also a great make-ahead meal for busy families!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hobo Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare and incredibly flavorful. The ground beef adds richness, while the potatoes become soft and absorb all the savory juices from the beef and vegetables. With the addition of cheese and seasonings, this casserole becomes a complete meal in one pan, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the next day. It’s filling, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

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

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the dish.
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the beef.
Add the onions and vegetables: To the skillet with the cooked ground beef, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the ground beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the potatoes in the baking dish. Spread it out into an even layer.
Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Add the cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño to the ground beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Use Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier twist, you can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, adding a natural sweetness and more nutrients.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, chickpeas, or a veggie burger patty for a vegetarian or vegan version of this casserole.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Hobo Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until fully heated.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery, cream of chicken, or even a homemade creamy sauce if you prefer a dairy-free or gluten-free option.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, cover it with foil and bake as directed, but add an extra 10 minutes of cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces before adding to the skillet.

4. Can I make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Just be sure to cook it through and adjust the seasoning to taste.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup or make your own creamy sauce with gluten-free flour. Also, make sure to use a gluten-free variety of chicken broth or any other gluten-free ingredients.

6. How can I make this casserole creamier?

To make the casserole creamier, you can add some sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup mixture. Alternatively, use a full-fat cream of mushroom soup for extra richness.

7. Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer a lighter version of this casserole.

8. How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork. If they’re still firm, you may need to bake the casserole for a few extra minutes.

9. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! You can cook this casserole in the slow cooker. Layer the potatoes, ground beef mixture, and sauce in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish, and increase the cooking time slightly as needed.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this casserole is a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. It’s a one-pan meal that’s full of flavor and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether you add extra veggies, switch up the protein, or try different seasonings, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!