A hearty and comforting dish, this Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. With ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and a melty layer of cheddar cheese, it’s the ideal combination of flavors and textures in one easy-to-make casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hobo Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, tender potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese makes this dish the ultimate comfort food. It’s one of those all-in-one meals that come together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. Plus, it can be customized with different types of cheese or vegetables to suit your tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a skillet or large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef and diced onion together. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the sliced potatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the beef and potato mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Storage/Reheating
This Hobo Casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other types like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses depending on your preference.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
3. How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too mushy?
Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and simmer the casserole just until the potatoes are tender. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can parboil the potatoes before adding them to the casserole.
4. Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, frozen diced or sliced potatoes can be used. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the casserole.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to make it a more well-rounded meal. Just add them to the beef mixture when you simmer the potatoes.
6. Can I use a different soup besides cream of mushroom?
Yes, you can swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken, cream of celery, or another creamy soup of your choice.
7. Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the soup you use is gluten-free and serve it with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired for a crunchy topping.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd. Just use a larger casserole dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
9. How do I make this dish spicier?
If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
10. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheese makes this casserole a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you need a comforting dinner the whole family will love. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness!
