Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Hobo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make, hearty, and full of flavor. This casserole combines ground beef, vegetables, and hearty seasonings, all baked together in a single dish for a satisfying meal. It’s the perfect go-to dinner when you need something filling and delicious without a lot of effort. With its tender meat, savory vegetables, and cheesy topping, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite!

Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Prepare the Casserole Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix.
Assemble the Casserole: Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with half of the sliced potatoes. Top the potatoes with half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the mixed vegetables. Pour half of the soup mixture over the layers, then repeat the layers (potatoes, beef, vegetables, soup).
Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add Cheese and Final Bake: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the hearty and delicious layers of meat, potatoes, and cheese!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 55-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add Beef: For extra flavor, crisp up some beef and sprinkle it on top before baking or mix it into the beef mixture.
Swap the Vegetables: Feel free to use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms in place of the frozen mixed vegetables.
Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, add a second layer of shredded cheese halfway through baking for an extra cheesy casserole.
Use Different Soup: For a twist, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Easy Hobo Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or heat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option.

4. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes if you want to add a little sweetness and extra nutrients to the dish.

5. Can I make this casserole with a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you like for a different flavor.

6. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Can I add meat other than beef to the casserole?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I use a different kind of soup?

Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.

9. Can I make this casserole in a smaller pan?

Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch pan for a smaller portion. Just reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness with a fork.

10. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Easy Hobo Casserole in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients as you would in the oven, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.

Conclusion

Easy Hobo Casserole is a versatile and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights when you need something filling and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious casserole that everyone will love. Whether you serve it for dinner or make it ahead for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll turn to time and time again. Enjoy the hearty combination of meat, potatoes, and cheese in every bite!

Jane