The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe | Easy & Hearty

I’ve made a lot of casseroles in my life, but this hobo casserole with ground beef is the one I keep coming back to. It’s easy, filling, and made with simple ingredients most people already have. The first time I made it, I wasn’t expecting much—just a quick meal to get dinner on the table. But after that first bite, I knew it was a keeper.

This casserole is layered with seasoned ground beef, sliced potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its best. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prep, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

Ingredients for Hobo Casserole

A good hobo casserole needs a few key ingredients. These are simple but come together in the best way.

Main Ingredients

Ground beef – I use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor. Leaner beef works too.

Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold work best. Slice them thin so they cook evenly.

Cream of mushroom soup – This makes the casserole rich and creamy.

Milk – Helps thin out the soup and create a smooth sauce.

Onion – Adds a little extra flavor. You can dice it or slice it thin.

Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack all melt well.

Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder – Simple seasonings that bring it all together.

Optional Add-Ins

Green beans or corn – A little extra veggie goodness.

Breadcrumbs or Ritz crackers – For a crunchy topping.

Diced tomatoes or Rotel – If you want a bit of a tomato kick.

Equipment Needed

Making this casserole is easy, but having the right tools makes it even easier.

Casserole dish – This gives enough space for the layers.

Skillet – For browning the ground beef.

Cutting board and knife – To slice the potatoes and onions.

Mixing bowl – For combining the sauce.

Aluminum foil – Helps keep moisture in while baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once it’s browned, drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Slice the potatoes into thin rounds. I like to keep them about 1/8 inch thick so they cook through properly. If they’re too thick, they’ll take longer to soften.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with the milk. Stir until smooth. This is what makes the casserole creamy and delicious.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

1. Start by greasing the casserole dish lightly.

2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.

3. Spread half of the ground beef over the potatoes.

4. Pour half of the soup mixture over the top.

5. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining sauce.

6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over everything.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up so it doesn’t fall apart when you scoop it out.

Variations of Hobo Casserole

Tater Tot Hobo Casserole

• Swap the sliced potatoes for tater tots. This makes it extra crispy on top.

Mexican-Style Hobo Casserole

• Add taco seasoning to the beef and use Rotel instead of cream of mushroom soup.

Cheesy Hobo Casserole

• Double the cheese for a richer, creamier casserole.

BBQ Hobo Casserole

• Mix in BBQ sauce with the ground beef for a smoky, tangy kick.

Tips for the Best Hobo Casserole

• Slice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt.
• Let it rest before serving to keep layers intact.
• Cover with foil for most of the baking time, then remove for a crispy top.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

How to Reheat

Oven: Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

What to Serve with Hobo Casserole

This casserole is hearty on its own, but some sides make it even better.

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Green beans or roasted veggies
• A simple garden salad

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Casserole Too Watery?

Use less liquid in the soup mixture or bake uncovered longer.

Potatoes Still Hard?

Make sure they’re sliced thin enough and cooked long enough.

Cheese Not Melting Properly?

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged cheese.

FAQs About Hobo Casserole

Can I make hobo casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I use instant potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but the texture will be softer and less structured.

What’s the best cheese for hobo casserole?

Cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella all work great.

How do I make it healthier?

Use lean ground beef and Greek yogurt instead of cream soup.

Final Thoughts

This hobo casserole with ground beef is one of those meals that brings comfort with every bite. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet so easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is always a good choice. The layers of potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese come together perfectly, making it a dish the whole family will love.

If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the time. It’s simple, affordable, and made with ingredients you probably already have. Plus, you can easily customize it to match your taste. So, go ahead—make a batch, serve it up, and enjoy a plate of pure comfort. And if you love it as much as I do, don’t forget to share it with someone who needs a hearty, homemade meal!