The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a warm casserole bubbling away in the oven, and this Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is the ultimate in hearty, simple comfort food. With layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy topping, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening.

this Recipe

This recipe came to life one chilly autumn night when I was determined to create something delicious with pantry staples. It quickly became a family favorite, thanks to its nostalgic flavors and ease of preparation. Ready to fall in love with a new dinner classic? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Get ready to discover your go-to dinner for busy weeknights. This Hobo Casserole ticks all the right boxes for flavor, convenience, and affordability.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of common ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this casserole assembled and baking in no time. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a home-cooked meal without a lot of fuss.

Not only is this dish quick, but it’s also budget-friendly. With ground beef, potatoes, and a few pantry staples, it stretches to feed a hungry family without breaking the bank.

Kids and adults alike will love the comforting layers of flavor. From the savory beef to the creamy topping and tender potatoes, every bite is a perfect combination of textures and tastes.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adapt it to suit your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. It’s a true pantry hero!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

Ground beef is the star of the show, providing a hearty and flavorful base. Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, or swap it for ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option.

Potatoes add substance to the dish. Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking, but Yukon Golds work beautifully for a creamier texture.

Cream of mushroom soup creates the luscious topping. It binds everything together while adding a savory, umami-rich flavor. You can substitute cream of chicken soup if that’s what you have on hand.

Cheddar cheese brings a gooey, melty finish to the casserole. Sharp cheddar works best for a bold flavor, but mild or medium cheddar will do the trick too.

If you’d like to elevate the dish, sprinkle in some dried herbs like thyme or parsley, or add a pinch of garlic powder to the ground beef for an extra kick of flavor.

Finally, you’ll need a casserole dish to bake everything to golden perfection. A 9x13-inch dish is the perfect size for this recipe.

How To Make This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how to bring it all together step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and preparing your ingredients. Peel and thinly slice your potatoes, aiming for even slices so they cook uniformly.

In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef until fully cooked. Season it with salt, pepper, and any optional spices like garlic powder or onion powder. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease.

Lightly grease your casserole dish, then begin layering. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly to cover the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the potatoes for seasoning.

Next, add the cooked ground beef, spreading it evenly over the potatoes. Pour a can of cream of mushroom soup over the beef, using a spatula to spread it out into an even layer.

Top everything with a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese. For a golden, bubbly finish, don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s the star of the topping!

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop out portions.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole stores beautifully and reheats like a dream.

For short-term storage, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating, place portions in the microwave for quick meals or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for an extra gooey finish.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a new flavor profile.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter, healthier twist.
• Add a layer of sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra veggies and color.
• Try topping the casserole with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for a crispy, crunchy finish.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses, to switch up the flavor.

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a true comfort food classic with endless possibilities. Whether you stick to the original or customize it to suit your tastes, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home. So grab your casserole dish and get ready to dig in!

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