Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a soul-satisfying dish that feels like a big warm hug from the inside, this Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with layers of tender ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and bubbling cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect blend of hearty and comforting. What makes it even better is how simple it is to pull together using everyday pantry staples—making it an absolute winner for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss crowd-pleaser that everyone will go back for seconds of.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things straightforward but never boring. Each element plays its part: the ground beef brings meaty richness, potatoes provide a cozy texture, cheese adds that irresistible melt, and the creamy soup ties it all together with smooth, savory flavor.

• 1 lb ground beef: The main protein, browned to juicy perfection for hearty flavor.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: These give the casserole its comforting, tender base layer.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: A classic creamy binder that makes every bite luscious.
• 1/2 cup milk: Thins out the soup mixture to create a perfect sauce consistency.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives a gentle kick of savory aroma.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and balance.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for a golden, melty finish full of rich flavor.
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh pop of color and a light herbal note.

How to Make Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). Get a skillet going on medium heat and toss in the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook them until the beef is beautifully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease leaving behind all that rich, meaty flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This creamy concoction will seep into the potatoes and beef, blending the layers together into pure comfort food magic.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Now the fun part: layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Next, scatter half of your savory beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, then spoon half the creamy soup mixture right on top. Repeat these layers once more until everything is snugly in place.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes. This slow baking helps the potatoes soften perfectly while the flavors meld together wonderfully.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Remove the foil and generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Pop the casserole back into the oven uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Let your Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe rest for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This little pause helps the layers set slightly, making it easier to serve and even more delicious to eat.

How to Serve Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley immediately brightens up this rich dish. The green flecks not only add a lovely pop of color but also introduce a subtle, fresh herbal note that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans make excellent light sides to balance the hearty casserole. For a more filling meal, garlic bread or a warm dinner roll also pairs wonderfully, giving a chance to scoop up all that cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dress things up for guests or make it extra fun for family night, try layering the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. Each portion will have its own bubbly cheese topping, making it feel extra special without any extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, letting you enjoy a comforting meal even on busy days.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual, adding a little extra time if needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave, but baking helps maintain that lovely crispy cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup with another type?

Absolutely! Cream of chicken or cream of celery soups make delicious alternatives and add a slightly different flavor profile while keeping the casserole moist and creamy.

Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Adding frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers between the layers is a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies without changing the dish’s comforting vibe.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda to bring a new twist to the flavor.

How thin should the potatoes be sliced?

Slice your potatoes thinly—about 1/8 inch thick—so they cook evenly and become tender within the baking time. Using a mandoline slicer can help make this task quick and uniform.

Is this recipe suitable for a nut-free diet?

Yes, this Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe contains no nuts and is safe for those managing nut allergies, making it an inclusive family favorite.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe is truly one of my go-to dishes whenever I crave something cozy, easy, and packed with flavor. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, while the layers of beef, potatoes, and cheese guarantee a satisfying meal every time. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’s bound to become a staple in your home as it has in mine. So grab those ingredients and make a batch—you won’t regret it!

Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe

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4.4 from 46 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Easy Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting American main course layering ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese. This budget-friendly, family-style dish is prepared quickly and baked to perfection, delivering a warm, satisfying meal ideal for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

Other Ingredients

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Prepare Soup Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
4. Layer Ingredients: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay half of the thinly sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the cooked beef and onion mixture over the potatoes, then spoon half of the soup mixture evenly on top. Repeat layering with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and soup mixture.
5. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
6. Add Cheese and Continue Baking: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.

Notes

• Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a flavor variation.
• Add frozen peas or corn between the layers for extra vegetables and color.
• Ensure to drain excess grease from cooked beef to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
• Thinly slicing potatoes helps ensure they cook evenly and become tender during baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American