The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There's nothing quite like the warm, comforting taste of a Hobo Casserole on a chilly evening. This classic dish combines layers of savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese for a meal that's equal parts hearty and satisfying.

I discovered this recipe during a camping trip when our family needed something easy to make with minimal ingredients. To this day, it remains a family favorite, gracing our dinner table whenever we crave something cozy and filling. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let’s explore why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

Why You'll Love This Hobo Casserole

Get ready to embrace the ultimate comfort food! This Hobo Casserole has all the makings of a household staple you'll turn to again and again.

First off, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, you’ll have this casserole baking in the oven in no time.

It’s also wonderfully affordable. Using ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, you can whip up a hearty meal for your entire family without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, the layers of flavors and textures are irresistible. Tender beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese come together to create the perfect bite every single time.

Lastly, this recipe is highly versatile. Whether you want to add more veggies, swap out ingredients, or cater to dietary needs, Hobo Casserole is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences.

So grab your casserole dish and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect, nostalgic flavor.

• Ground Beef: The foundation of this casserole. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the ideal balance of flavor and fat. If you prefer leaner meat, consider adding a splash of olive oil to keep it moist.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold up during baking. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned classic is the secret to the casserole’s rich, creamy layers. If you're not a fan of mushrooms, cream of chicken soup makes a great substitute.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a must for that melty, golden topping. Feel free to experiment with blends like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a twist.
• Seasonings: A blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder brings out the best in the beef and potatoes. Don’t forget to taste and adjust as you go!

You’ll also need a large casserole dish and aluminum foil for baking. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for achieving perfectly thin potato slices.

How To Make This Hobo Casserole

Creating this crowd-pleasing Hobo Casserole is a breeze. Let’s break it down step by step.

1. Preheat and Prep
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Beef
   In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once the meat is no longer pink, drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Layer the Casserole
   Begin layering your casserole:
   • Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping.
   • Spread half of the cooked ground beef over the potatoes.
   • Spoon and spread a portion of cream of mushroom soup evenly over the beef.
   • Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the layer.
   Repeat the layers until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake to Perfection
   Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the cheese melt and turn golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make serving easier.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Hobo Casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.

• Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings for a quick bite.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of cayenne to give your casserole a kick.
• Protein Swap: Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully if you prefer a lighter option.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream soup alternative to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
• Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas, corn, or chopped carrots between layers for extra nutrients and color.

Feel free to get creative and tailor the dish to your family’s tastes. That’s the magic of a casserole – it’s endlessly adaptable!

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping a quick weeknight meal, this Hobo Casserole is guaranteed to deliver on flavor and comfort. So grab your ingredients, turn on your oven, and prepare to wow your family with this timeless classic. Enjoy!

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