Hobo Casserole with ground beef is a simple, no-fuss meal that combines hearty flavors and easy prep. This dish usually features ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and melted cheese all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s one of those classic casseroles that brings comfort food vibes right to your dining table.
One thing I love about this casserole is how easy it is to throw together on a busy night. I usually use frozen mixed veggies and whatever potatoes I have on hand, which makes it super quick to prep. The cheese topping always gets everyone’s attention—there’s nothing like that warm, gooey layer on top that pulls apart in the best way.
I like serving this with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s great for leftovers, too, warming up just as nicely the next day. Hobo Casserole always feels like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect when you want a warm, satisfying dinner without spending forever in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I like using 80/20 beef because it adds flavor and some fat for juiciness. For leaner options, try ground turkey or chicken. Just add a splash of oil when cooking to keep it moist.
Potatoes: Thinly sliced russet potatoes work best—they cook evenly and get tender. You can substitute with Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or use frozen hashbrowns for a shortcut.
Tomato soup: It brings mild tomato flavor and moisture. If you want a fresher taste, blend canned tomatoes with a little broth or use tomato sauce with some cream to thicken.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here for its melt and tang. Feel free to mix sharp cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if you want a stretchier, milder topping.
How Can I Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Evenly in the Casserole?
Potatoes can be tricky since they take time to soften. Here’s what I do:
- Slice potatoes evenly about 1/4 inch thick for uniform cooking.
- Layer them flat without overlapping too much to help heat reach every slice.
- Cover with foil during baking to trap steam and help them soften.
- Bake at a steady 350°F for about an hour, checking tenderness with a fork before adding cheese.
If you want to speed it up, you can parboil potato slices for 5 minutes before layering—just be gentle so they don’t break apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – great for browning ground beef and cooking onions evenly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering potatoes and beef for even baking.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – helps slice potatoes thinly and chop onions safely.
- Mixing bowl – useful for mixing the tomato soup with water before pouring over casserole.
- Aluminum foil – keeps moisture in while baking potatoes until tender.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still tastes great.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with onions to boost veggies and add flavor.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Mix in some cooked bacon or ham chunks for extra smoky, meaty goodness.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef – Easy Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (10.75 oz) tomato soup (or similar condensed tomato-based soup)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour and 15 minutes to cook, including baking time. Most of the cooking time is spent baking the casserole so the potatoes become tender and the flavors meld together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any extra grease. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix well, then remove from heat.
2. Layer Potatoes and Beef:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay a single layer of the potato slices evenly on the bottom. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes. Add another layer with the remaining potatoes, then top that with the rest of the beef.
3. Add Tomato Soup and Bake:
In a small bowl, stir together the tomato soup and water until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the potatoes and beef in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts completely and turns bubbly.
5. Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this simple, cheesy, and comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen sliced potatoes to save prep time. Just thaw them slightly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, which can make it watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen mixed veggies work great. Just sauté them with the onion and beef before layering in the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.