Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes – Quick & Delicious!

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Looking for a hearty, no-fuss dinner that brings back the cozy vibes of campfire meals? This hobo casserole with ground beef and potatoes is your go-to comfort dish. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. With simple pantry staples and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping on weekends.

But don’t let the simplicity fool you—this dish delivers layers of flavor and nostalgia, especially if you grew up with foil-pack dinners. And if you’re wondering how to ensure your beef is cooked safely, the USDA’s ground beef temperature guide will come in handy.

🍴 What Is Hobo Casserole?

Originally inspired by hobo foil packet dinners, this casserole version brings that same spirit indoors—straight to your oven. It typically combines ground beef, sliced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy binder like soup.

If you’re not a fan of canned soup, you can easily swap it out using this homemade cream of mushroom soup recipe that tastes fresher and allows full control over sodium and additives.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this cheesy casserole magic happen:

1 lb ground beef (preferably 85/15)
4 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
1 medium onion, diced
1 can cream of mushroom (or homemade)
½ cup milk or heavy cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt and pepper
Optional: frozen corn, bell peppers, or green beans

🔪 How to Make Hobo Casserole – Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain the excess fat.
Sauté onions until soft and translucent.
Mix the sauce: In a bowl, combine soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Layer in a baking dish:
- Start with half the potatoes (thinly sliced)
- Add half the beef and onions
- Pour half the sauce
- Repeat layers
Top with cheese, cover with foil.
Bake for 45 minutes covered, then 10–15 minutes uncovered for a golden top.

🕒 Cooking Times & Tips

Bake: 350°F for 55–60 minutes
Rest: Let sit 10 minutes before serving for best texture
Make Ahead: Assemble, refrigerate, and bake within 24 hours

Want a twist? Try it in the slow cooker for 6 hours on low or use an Instant Pot casserole pan insert for quick results.

🔁 Substitutions & Variations

Customize it to your liking with:

Proteins: Ground turkey, plant-based meat, sausage
Veggies: Zucchini, peas, spinach, or mushrooms
Cheeses: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby
Soup Swaps: Cream of chicken, celery, or a DIY white sauce

🧊 Meal Prep & Freezer Tips

This casserole is meal-prep gold:

Prep in advance and store unbaked for up to 24 hours
Freeze fully baked portions in airtight containers
Reheat in oven at 325°F or microwave with a splash of milk

Need expert advice? This guide from The Kitchn shows how to freeze casseroles like a pro.

🥗 Serving Ideas

Pair your hobo casserole with:

Garden salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or Texas toast
Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli
Fruit salad for a fresh, sweet finish

⚖️ Nutritional Tips

Looking for a lighter option? Try:

Leaner ground beef (93/7)
Low-fat cheese
Low-sodium or homemade soup
Add more veggies to bulk it up with fewer calories

Average calories: Around 400–450 per serving, depending on cheese and soup used.

❓ FAQs – People Also Ask

Can you make hobo casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before and bake it the next day.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes give that fluffy interior, while Yukon golds provide a creamy bite.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based creamy soup alternative.

What does “hobo” meal mean?

Originally, “hobo meals” referred to foil dinners cooked over a fire by nomads or campers.

🔑 Final Tips for the Perfect Bake

Always slice potatoes thin—this ensures even cooking.
Let the casserole rest before serving to thicken up.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for added color and a touch of brightness.

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