Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Hey there, friend! If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and budget-friendly meal, you’ve come to the right place. Not only is this Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also a total lifesaver on busy nights when you need something quick, filling, and delicious. Plus, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile!

Trust me, this dish is pure magic – layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy soups, and gooey cheese, all topped with crispy fried onions for that irresistible crunch. Best of all, you don’t need any fancy ingredients or cooking skills to make it happen.

I grew up eating casseroles just like this one, and now, as a mom, I see why my mother loved making them so much. They’re easy to throw together, require minimal dishes (which means less cleanup – always a win!), and they’re practically guaranteed to make the whole family happy. In addition, it’s one of those classic comfort foods that never go out of style!

Why You’ll Love Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

• Super easy to make – No fancy techniques required.
• Uses simple ingredients – Pantry staples you probably already have.
• Crowd-pleaser – Kids and adults both love it!
• Perfect for meal prep – Tastes just as good the next day.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

To make this Hobo Casserole, you’ll need:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 medium yellow potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 8 oz Colby Jack cheese, freshly grated
• 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10 oz) can cream of celery soup
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup French’s fried onions

How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Follow these simple steps to make a perfect, no-fuss casserole:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the beef: First, lightly grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet (or baking dish). Then, add ground beef, break it apart, and cook over medium heat until browned. Make sure to season with salt and pepper.

• Layer the potatoes: Next, arrange the thinly sliced potatoes over the cooked beef.

• Add cheese: After that, sprinkle the grated Colby Jack cheese evenly over the potatoes.
• Make the sauce: Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, milk, all-purpose seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Assemble the casserole: Now, pour the sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly.

• Bake: Then, cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 90 minutes. (Pro tip: Place a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any drips!)
• Crisp it up: Once it’s done baking, remove the foil, sprinkle French’s fried onions over the top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
• Serve and enjoy! Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and dig in!

Tips for the Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

• Slice potatoes thinly – This helps them cook evenly.
• Use fresh cheese – Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well.
• Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving – This helps it set up for cleaner slices.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Try these ideas:

• Use a different cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend all work great.
• Swap the soups: Try cream of mushroom or cream of potato instead.
• Add veggies: Mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or even spinach can be layered in.
• Try a different protein: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef.
• Make it in the slow cooker: Layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add the fried onions just before serving.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• Make ahead: Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s hot.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Simply assemble it in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready. If you’re making it ahead, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This allows the ingredients to warm up slightly, helping the casserole cook more evenly. Additionally, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Can I use noodles instead of potatoes?

Absolutely! Egg noodles work great – just cook them first before layering. If using noodles, reduce the baking time to about 45-50 minutes since they don’t need as long to cook as potatoes. Another option is to use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version, but be sure to drain excess moisture before layering to avoid a watery casserole.

Do I have to cook the beef first?

Yes, browning the beef prevents a greasy texture and enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. Draining excess fat also helps prevent a soggy consistency. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or leftover shredded meat. Additionally, adding minced garlic and onions while browning the beef enhances its taste even more.

What was John Wayne’s illness?

John Wayne battled stomach cancer, which ultimately led to his passing in 1979. He was first diagnosed with lung cancer in 1964, successfully underwent surgery, but later developed stomach cancer, which was more aggressive. Despite his illness, he continued acting and remained a strong advocate for cancer research, even establishing the John Wayne Cancer Foundation to help fund early detection and treatment initiatives.

What is a Minnesota casserole called?

A Minnesota casserole is commonly referred to as a hotdish, a beloved one-pan meal that typically consists of ground meat, a starch (like potatoes or tater tots), vegetables, and a creamy sauce. It’s a staple in Midwestern homes, especially during colder months. Unlike traditional casseroles, hotdish is often topped with crispy tater tots or crunchy potato chips for extra texture.

What is in King Ranch casserole?

King Ranch casserole typically contains layers of chicken, tortillas, cheese, Rotel tomatoes, and a creamy sauce made with canned soup and spices. Some variations include bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. It’s a Tex-Mex favorite known for its bold and comforting taste. For an extra kick, you can add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese. Additionally, using shredded rotisserie chicken makes preparation even easier.

What is the oldest known casserole?

The oldest known casserole dates back to ancient Greece, where early versions included layered meats, grains, and sauces baked in earthenware dishes. Over time, casseroles evolved, incorporating ingredients from different cultures, ultimately becoming the beloved comfort food we enjoy today. In medieval times, casseroles were often baked with a crust or pastry-like topping. The concept of modern casseroles, using canned soups and cheese, became widely popular in the mid-20th century as a convenient and hearty meal option for families.

More Delicious Casseroles to Try

If you love comfort food, check out these must-try recipes:

• Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole – Another cheesy and hearty favorite!
• Crock-Pot Cowboy Casserole – A slow-cooked beef and potato delight.
• Teriyaki Ground Beef Recipe – A fun twist on ground beef!

Let’s Stay Connected!

I’d love to see your version of this Hobo Casserole! Share your creations and tag me on Facebook – I love hearing from you! Happy cooking!

Print