If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that practically hugs your soul, then this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Imagine layers of tender russet potatoes and perfectly browned ground beef, all wrapped in creamy mushroom soup, then crowned with a generous blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a nostalgic, satisfying casserole that brings warmth and simplicity together in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this recipe delivers big on flavor and even bigger on heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish shines because of its straightforward, accessible ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that will make your casserole irresistible.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that adds richness, depth, and satisfying savory notes.
- 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced: These provide a tender, creamy texture that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and a bit of bite for contrast.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings creaminess and an earthy undertone to the layers.
- 1/2 cup milk: Smooths out the soup mixture for an even, luscious consistency.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese: Melts to golden perfection, providing melty, gooey goodness on top.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Elevates and balances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick and enhances the savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle garlic punch that rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready once you assemble your layers. Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. Dice the onion finely to spread its sweet, aromatic flavor through the casserole. If your cheese isn’t shredded yet, grab your grater and get to work now so everything comes together smoothly.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat and toss in your ground beef. As it browns, season it well with salt, black pepper, and a touch of garlic powder if you’re using it. Breaking it up ensures even cooking and a great texture in your casserole. Once browned through, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Soup Base
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth and well blended. This mixture will soak into the potatoes and beef, keeping each bite moist and flavorful, while adding that iconic creamy mushroom taste that makes this casserole so comforting.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. Now, start layering: spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom, followed by half of the diced onions, then half of the browned ground beef. Pour half of the soup mixture over these layers to unify everything. Repeat this layering once more, finishing with the cheese sprinkled generously on top. This layering method ensures every forkful has a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 45 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld and the potatoes to cook gently. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This final uncovered baking step lets the cheese melt into a bubbling, golden crust and the potatoes become fork-tender, creating that irresistible casserole finish.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and allowing flavors to deepen. Your kitchen will be filled with that mouthwatering aroma—pure comfort food calling your name.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top of the casserole to brighten the dish visually and add a fresh, subtle crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a small dollop of sour cream on each serving adds a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the cheesy, savory layers.
Side Dishes
This casserole packs a lot of hearty goodness, so pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables helps balance the meal with freshness and lightness. Consider simple roasted broccoli or a tangy coleslaw to complement the creamy, cheesy richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling creative? Serve individual portions in small, oven-safe ramekins for a charming presentation perfect for dinner parties or family meals. You can also turn leftovers into skillet breakfasts by reheating a slice and topping it with a fried egg for a protein-packed morning treat inspired by this classic Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the layers delicious and moist, making it perfect for a quick reheat during the busy week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish but hold off on baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen—just add extra time and cover the dish to prevent over-browning.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or heat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil until heated through. For the best texture, remove the foil in the last 5-10 minutes to re-crisp the cheesy top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar or Colby Jack cheese is perfect for melting and flavor, you can swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a different twist on this casserole.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can easily transform the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe into a vegetarian staple by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative, lentils, or hearty mushrooms for texture and umami.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or even spinach can be layered in to add more color, texture, and nutrients to your casserole without overpowering the classic flavors.
How do I make the potatoes cook evenly?
Thinly slicing the potatoes is key to ensuring they cook through in the baking time. Also, covering the dish while baking traps steam, helping the potatoes become tender without drying out.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, just bake it as directed. This makes it fantastic for meal prepping or hosting dinner guests.
Final Thoughts
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, satisfying experience that brings comfort food to a whole new level. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, it’s one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this casserole delivers cozy, cheesy happiness in every bite. Give it a try soon—you won’t regret it!
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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Hobo Casserole combines savory ground beef with tender sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting one-dish meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, it’s layered and baked to golden perfection, delivering warm flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Dairy and Soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prep Ingredients: Peel and thinly slice the russet potatoes, dice the onion, and shred the cheese if not pre-shredded, ensuring all components are ready for layering.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and garlic powder during cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Drain Grease & Mix Soup: Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease. In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with milk until you achieve a smooth mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.
- Layer Ingredients: Start by layering half of the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom of the dish, then add half the diced onions, followed by half the browned ground beef, and spread half of the soup mixture on top.
- Repeat Layers & Add Cheese: Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, onions, beef, and soup mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top layer.
- Cover & Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Uncover & Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and making it easier to slice.
Notes
- Use thinly sliced potatoes for even cooking throughout the casserole.
- Drain excess grease after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if desired for a different flavor.
- For added vegetables, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture during cooking.
- Let the casserole rest before serving to improve texture and slicing.
