Hobo Casserole with ground beef is one of those all-in-one comfort meals that’s easy to make and hits the spot every time. It’s packed with ground beef, potatoes, veggies, and a tasty sauce that all bake together until everything is warm and bubbling. The best part is how simple it is to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something cozy and filling without a lot of fuss.
I love making this recipe because it reminds me of easy dinners from my childhood, where everything was cooked in one dish and leftovers were even better the next day. I usually like to brown the beef first and then mix in my favorite veggies — sometimes adding a little cheese on top for extra gooeyness. It feels like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, you can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand, which makes it a great way to clear out the fridge.
When I serve this hobo casserole, I like to pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It’s a no-stress meal that everyone in the family enjoys, and I’m always pleased when it disappears quickly from the table. Give it a try when you want comfort food that’s easy to make and still tastes like a special dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star protein. I usually pick lean ground beef (90% lean) to avoid extra grease. If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken work great here too!
Potatoes: Thin slices help them cook evenly and become tender in the oven. Russet potatoes are my favorite since they soften nicely and absorb flavors well.
Condensed Tomato Soup: This adds richness and moisture. You can swap with canned tomato sauce mixed with a bit of cream or milk for a homemade touch.
Cheese: Cheddar melts well and gives that golden top we all love. Mixing mozzarella adds nice stretchiness. Use your favorite melting cheese or a dairy-free version if needed.
How Do You Get Tender Potatoes and a Perfectly Cooked Casserole?
Getting potatoes soft without drying out the ground beef is key. Here’s what helps me:
- Slice potatoes thin and evenly so they cook through at the same time.
- Pour the tomato soup mixture evenly over layers to keep everything moist.
- Cover with foil during baking to trap steam and soften potatoes.
- Remove foil for the last 10-15 minutes to brown the cheese nicely.
- Check potatoes with a fork near the end; they should slide in easily.
Cooking covered then uncovered is my trick to get tender layers and a bubbly, melty cheese topping!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning ground beef and softening onions all in one pan.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – to slice potatoes thin and chop onions easily.
- 9×9-inch baking dish – just the right size for layering and baking this casserole evenly.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish to keep moisture in while baking.
- Measuring spoons – handy for adding the right amount of spices and Worcestershire sauce.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and evenly spreading the beef mixture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version that’s still tasty.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef to boost veggies and flavor.
- Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder for a little smoky or spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped cooked bacon or ham for extra smoky, meaty richness.
Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat and Veggies:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time needed for this recipe is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. That includes 15 minutes prep time and about 1 hour of baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef and Onions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft. Be sure to drain any extra fat so your casserole isn’t greasy. Once cooked, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Layer the Potatoes and Meat:
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread half of your thinly sliced potatoes evenly over the bottom. Then, spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the potatoes.
3. Add the Tomato Soup Mixture:
Mix the condensed tomato soup with water until smooth. Pour half of this sauce evenly over the meat layer.
4. Repeat the Layers:
On top of the first layers, add the remaining potatoes, then the rest of the ground beef, followed by the remaining tomato soup mixture. This will create two delicious layers for your casserole.
5. Bake Covered and Add Cheese:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and bake for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes become tender. After that, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting, hearty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents extra moisture in the casserole.
Can I Substitute the Potatoes with Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced sweet potatoes work well and add a slightly sweet flavor. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as sweet potatoes might cook a bit faster.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You sure can! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
