Hobo Casserole (Ground Beef Recipe)

Introduction

Hearty, comforting, and oh-so-easy, Hobo Casserole delivers layers of seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy potatoes, all baked to bubbling perfection. This recipe is a favorite for busy families and satisfying weeknight dinners, offering down-home flavors with minimal fuss.

What makes this ground beef casserole irresistible? Its versatility, simplicity, and the way it brings basic ingredients together into something deeply delicious—the ideal solution for budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing comfort food.

Why This Hobo Casserole Is So Satisfying

Hobo Casserole isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about balance. Rich, savory ground beef mingles with sweet onions, crisp-tender vegetables, and mildly starchy potatoes. A creamy soup base ties everything together, turning pantry staples into a savory, stick-to-your-ribs meal. The result: golden, cheesy top, succulently moist center, and a dish that vanishes before you know it.

The Secret to Perfectly Chopped Vegetables

Uniform vegetables cook evenly for that just-right texture. A reliable tool like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper makes prepping onions, carrots, and potatoes effortless—saving time and ensuring beautiful consistency in every bite. Dice your veggies quickly to keep assembly fast and stress-free.

Layering for Maximum Flavor

Building your casserole in hearty layers is the key. Start by browning ground beef in a quality nonstick skillet—try the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch—to ensure easy release and even cooking. Once your beef is perfectly crumbled, use a handy Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher to break down any chunks, creating a tender, uniform meat base.

Next, add your chopped vegetables and soup mixture, followed by thinly sliced potatoes (a breeze with the chopper), and finish with a layer of cheese. Each step builds on the last for depth and richness.

Smart Baking and Serving Tips

To prevent sticking, line your baking dish with a sheet from the Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. Bake until everything is bubbling and golden, then let it rest to lock in flavor. For leftovers or easy lunch prep, portion into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers—they keep portions fresh and make reheating a breeze.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This Hobo Casserole makes about 6 generous servings. Each contains roughly 400–450 calories, depending on your choice of cheese and soup. With ample protein, fiber, and veggies, it’s a wholesome, filling meal for the entire family.

Hobo Casserole Recipe (Ground Beef Delight)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy serving and cleanup.
2. In a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher. Drain excess fat. Stir in the onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Season with garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup with milk. Set aside.
4. Layer the casserole: spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish. Top with an even layer of carrots (and mixed veggies, if using), then a layer of potatoes. Pour the soup mixture over the top, spreading to cover. Add shredded cheese over everything.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
6. Let casserole sit 10 minutes before serving. Portion leftovers into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy storage.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Recap: Why This Hobo Casserole Rules

Layered with flavor and nostalgia, this ground beef casserole is weeknight magic. Beneath golden cheese and creamy potatoes lies a savory medley of beef and veggies. Thanks to handy kitchen tools, prep and cleanup are faster than ever—leaving you more time to enjoy this all-American comfort food classic.