Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy, budget-friendly dinner, Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the answer. It’s a complete meal in one dish, combining savory meat, veggies, and cheese into a casserole that will please the whole family. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for something to satisfy your hunger after a long day, this casserole is a guaranteed hit. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 can (15 oz) of green beans, drained
1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup frozen corn
4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef mixture, green beans, diced tomatoes, frozen corn, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly along the bottom.
Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the potatoes, spreading it out evenly.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a meatless meal.
Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño for a touch of heat.
Potatoes: Try using sweet potatoes for a unique twist, or substitute with frozen hash browns for quicker prep time.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Hobo Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage as a substitute for ground beef.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I prevent the potatoes from being too hard?

Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly so they cook evenly. If you’re concerned, you can briefly microwave or boil the slices before adding them to the casserole.

Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?

Yes, fresh green beans can be used. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the casserole.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

The recipe as written is already gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients. Always double-check labels on processed items like cream of mushroom soup to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread.

Can I use different vegetables in the casserole?

Yes, feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers. Just make sure they are cooked or thawed before adding them to the casserole.

How can I make the casserole creamier?

For a creamier texture, you can add an extra half-can of cream of mushroom soup or mix in a bit of sour cream or heavy cream.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

Frozen hash browns or sliced potatoes can be used in place of fresh potatoes to save time. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a wonderfully easy, delicious, and customizable meal that comes together in one dish. With its blend of hearty beef, vegetables, and cheese, it’s sure to satisfy your hunger and impress your family or guests. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting casserole to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe is a winner.