Are you looking for a hearty and simple meal that the whole family will love? Well, let me introduce you to my favorite comfort food: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick family dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Plus, it’s a fantastic option if you’re searching for easy pasta recipes to add to your rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and filling, making it a great choice for dinner with ground beef.
- Versatile ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Can be customized with your favorite veggies or spices!
Ingredients
To make this delightful Hobo Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this scrumptious Hobo Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom.
- Spread the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by the remaining potato slices.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all the potatoes are covered.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and drizzle with melted butter.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with paprika if desired, and serve hot!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Hobo Casserole turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- For a creamier texture, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce.
- Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly for even cooking.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set before serving.
How to Serve
This Hobo Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with:
- A fresh garden salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Garlic bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.
For more delicious ideas, check out my Beef Cheesy Rollups or Ground Beef Stroganoff!
Make Ahead and Storage
This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
For those busy nights when you need 30-minute meals, consider making a quick side of creamy garlic pasta to accompany your casserole. It’s a delightful pairing!
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and let’s make this Hobo Casserole a staple in your home. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate!
Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Layer sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish. Spread cooked beef mixture over potatoes.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup with milk and melted butter, then pour over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and garnish with paprika if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot.