If you are looking for a comforting, all-in-one meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day, then this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender sliced potatoes, savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese to create a hearty dish that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this casserole promises rich flavors and textures that will keep everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role. From the juicy ground beef to the sharp cheddar cheese, every component builds layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, savory base that delivers protein and richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy, comforting sauce binding everything together.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens and smooths the soup for perfect consistency.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and adds a bit of tangy complexity.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top for a golden, gooey finish.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: The hearty, tender layers that soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing the ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the beef and onions to perfection.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, bright hint when sprinkled on top before serving.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Having the oven ready to go ensures your casserole will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden finish on the cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook everything until the beef is nice and browned and the onions have softened, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a cleaner dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until you have a smooth, flavorful sauce that will coat the layers of your casserole beautifully.
Step 4: Layer the Potatoes
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then evenly arrange the thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom. Season them with salt and pepper to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Add the Beef Mixture
Next, spread the cooked ground beef and onions evenly over the potato layer. This keeps all the savory goodness in every forkful.
Step 6: Pour the Soup Mixture
Pour the creamy mushroom sauce evenly on top of the beef and potatoes, making sure every edge is covered to lock in moisture and flavor during baking.
Step 7: Top with Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the entire casserole. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, enticing crust that’s simply irresistible.
Step 8: Bake Covered
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld wonderfully.
Step 9: Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This final step helps create a golden-brown, cheesy top, while ensuring the potatoes are tender and the casserole is piping hot.
Step 10: Let it Rest and Garnish
Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the layers set a bit. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy casserole. You can also try a dollop of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce if you want an extra kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal full of vibrant textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or cast-iron skillets. This not only looks charming but also keeps each portion warm and bubbly right up until the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, simply cover any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe will stay delicious for up to 3 days and makes for an easy next-day dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for even longer, it freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, and remove the foil in the last 5 minutes for that signature cheesy top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives the casserole that classic sharp flavor and great melt, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda to vary the taste.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can easily make a homemade version with butter, flour, milk, and sautéed mushrooms to keep it fresh and just as creamy.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and consider using a vegetable soup base instead of cream of mushroom soup to keep it hearty and flavorful.
How thin should the potatoes be sliced?
Try to slice the potatoes about 1/8-inch thick so they cook evenly and absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours. Just keep an eye on the potatoes’ tenderness to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Recipe is such a wonderful, cozy dish to have in your recipe rotation. It’s straightforward to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers big on flavor and comfort. I can’t wait for you to try it—you might just find your new favorite family dinner!
Print
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 with ground beef is a comforting layered dish featuring tender sliced potatoes, savory browned beef and onions, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection, it’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the beef is browned and onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Mix Soup Sauce: In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth and well-blended to create a creamy sauce layer.
- Layer Potatoes: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Add Beef Mixture: Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly over the layered potatoes for a rich base.
- Pour Soup Mixture: Pour the mushroom soup mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes, distributing the creamy sauce throughout the casserole.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top to add a golden, melted cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving for a fresh touch.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery soup for a slightly different flavor.
- Thinly slicing potatoes is key to ensure they cook fully within the baking time.
- For a richer taste, use sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture can enhance nutrition and flavor.
