Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat with diced onion until no longer pink (about 6–8 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat.
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Spoon half the ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk. Pour evenly over the top.
- Cover tightly with foil.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake covered for 50 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheese over the top, and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Cream of Chicken: Swap mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar soup Vegetable Boost: Add frozen peas, green beans, or corn between layers Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese and add red pepper flakes Loaded Style: Top with bacon bits, chives, and a drizzle of sour cream One-Dish Prep: Brown beef and onion in a cast-iron skillet, then layer and bake directly in it 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze unbaked (without cheese) or baked casserole for up to 2 months Reheat: Bake from chilled at 350°F until hot, or microwave individual portions ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Do I have to cook the beef first?
Yes—browning adds flavor and ensures proper texture. Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely—great for a lighter version. What kind of potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet for softness and flavor. Should I peel the potatoes?
Optional! Peel for a smoother texture or leave skins on for rustic feel. Can I add more cheese?
Go for it! Mix some into the layers for extra cheesiness. Is this kid-friendly?
100%—simple, cheesy, and comforting. Can I skip the soup?
Try making a roux-based sauce if you prefer homemade. Why is it called “hobo casserole”?
It’s a rustic, easy dish using pantry staples—perfect for simple living. What sides go well with it?
A green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread. 🏁 Conclusion
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate cozy meal—easy, filling, and full of nostalgic flavor. Whether you're feeding a family or stocking the freezer, it’s a down-home favorite that never fails. 🥘💛 Make it your own with toppings and tweaks, or enjoy it classic and comforting—either way, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table.
Cream of Chicken: Swap mushroom soup for cream of chicken or cheddar soup Vegetable Boost: Add frozen peas, green beans, or corn between layers Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack cheese and add red pepper flakes Loaded Style: Top with bacon bits, chives, and a drizzle of sour cream One-Dish Prep: Brown beef and onion in a cast-iron skillet, then layer and bake directly in it 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze unbaked (without cheese) or baked casserole for up to 2 months Reheat: Bake from chilled at 350°F until hot, or microwave individual portions ❓ 10 FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Do I have to cook the beef first?
Yes—browning adds flavor and ensures proper texture. Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely—great for a lighter version. What kind of potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet for softness and flavor. Should I peel the potatoes?
Optional! Peel for a smoother texture or leave skins on for rustic feel. Can I add more cheese?
Go for it! Mix some into the layers for extra cheesiness. Is this kid-friendly?
100%—simple, cheesy, and comforting. Can I skip the soup?
Try making a roux-based sauce if you prefer homemade. Why is it called “hobo casserole”?
It’s a rustic, easy dish using pantry staples—perfect for simple living. What sides go well with it?
A green salad, steamed veggies, or crusty bread. 🏁 Conclusion
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes is the ultimate cozy meal—easy, filling, and full of nostalgic flavor. Whether you're feeding a family or stocking the freezer, it’s a down-home favorite that never fails. 🥘💛 Make it your own with toppings and tweaks, or enjoy it classic and comforting—either way, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table.