The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. This classic dish combines layers of flavorful ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and a generous topping of melted cheese. It’s a recipe that resonates with home cooks looking for an easy, budget-friendly meal that delivers big on flavor without requiring fancy ingredients or extensive prep time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The base of your casserole, providing a hearty, meaty flavor. Opt for lean ground beef (like 80/20) to minimize excess grease while still keeping the dish flavorful.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, pairing perfectly with the savory beef.
- Potatoes (2 medium, thinly sliced): Thinly sliced potatoes cook quickly and add a comforting, starchy layer to the casserole. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well due to their creamy texture.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): This classic condensed soup creates a creamy base, adding a rich, savory flavor that ties the ingredients together.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Milk helps to thin out the condensed soup, making it easier to coat the potatoes and beef evenly.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): A generous layer of cheddar cheese melts on top, creating a bubbly, golden crust. You can use your favorite cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the beef and potatoes.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
- In your skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
- Drain excess grease to avoid making the casserole too oily. This step ensures a cleaner, lighter dish.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Sauce
- Add sliced potatoes directly into the skillet. Make sure they’re thinly sliced for even cooking.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, then season with salt and pepper to taste. The milk helps to thin out the soup, creating a creamy sauce that coats the potatoes and beef evenly.
Step 3: Simmer for Tender Potatoes
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften. This step helps infuse the flavors before baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Using a spatula, spread it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. The cooling period helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- Meat Alternatives: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based meat substitute or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Potato Options: Sweet potatoes or red potatoes can be used for a slightly different flavor. Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory beef.
- Cheese Varieties: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for added kick.
- Soup Variations: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom, try using cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different taste profile.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, mix in vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. These add color and variety to the dish.