Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that will feed the entire family, look no further than this Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, ground beef, savory soups, and cheese, this casserole is pure comfort in a dish. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for a busy weeknight or serving a crowd, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is not only easy to assemble but also incredibly versatile. It uses simple ingredients that you can find in most pantries, making it the perfect go-to meal when you’re short on time or energy. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and creamy soup creates a deliciously rich texture, while the melted cheese topping adds that extra touch of indulgence. Plus, it’s an excellent recipe for family gatherings, meal prepping, or when you just need a dish that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this casserole a flavorful and satisfying meal:

• 1 pound ground beef – Adds protein and richness to the dish.
• 1 cup onion, diced – For a bit of sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced – Provides a savory kick that enhances the dish.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the meat and vegetables.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds just the right amount of spice.
• 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced – The foundation of the casserole, offering both texture and substance.
• 1 can (10.7 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – Creamy and rich, a key ingredient for flavor.
• 1 can (10.7 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup – Adds a velvety consistency and pairs well with the beef and potatoes.
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk – Thickens the casserole, giving it a creamy finish.
• ½ cup milk – Helps to thin out the soups, ensuring they coat the layers evenly.
• 2 cups shredded cheese – Provides a melty, gooey topping that pulls everything together.

this RECIPE

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Large skillet
• Cooking spray
• Whisk
• Knife for slicing potatoes
• Tinfoil

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat and Prep the Pan
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray your 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
   In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef with 1 cup of diced onions and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic over medium heat. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
3. Layer the Potatoes and Beef
   Spread a thin layer of sliced potatoes (about half of your 5 medium potatoes) evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Follow this by adding half of the cooked beef mixture.
4. Prepare the Soup Mixture
   In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of regular milk, and 1 can of evaporated milk. This creates a smooth and creamy base that binds all the ingredients together.
5. Assemble the Casserole
   Pour half of the soup mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, soup, and cheese to create two full layers.
6. Bake
   Cover the casserole with tinfoil, making sure to tent it slightly so that the foil doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
7. Uncover and Finish Baking
   After 1 hour, remove the tinfoil and bake for an additional 30 minutes. This step allows the cheese to brown slightly and become bubbly.
8. Let It Rest
   Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not slicing the potatoes thinly enough: Make sure your potatoes are thinly sliced so they cook evenly. If they’re too thick, they might not cook through during the baking time.
• Skipping the resting period: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes will help the layers hold together better when served.
• Not seasoning the beef: Be sure to season the beef as it cooks to avoid a bland casserole.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the casserole.
• Swap out the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery if you prefer a different flavor.
• Add vegetables such as sliced carrots, peas, or corn between the layers for extra nutrition and texture.

How to Serve and Present Hobo Casserole

For a rustic and hearty presentation, serve this casserole straight from the baking dish. To elevate the look, garnish the top with fresh chopped parsley or green onions just before serving. Pair the casserole with a simple side salad or steamed green beans to add a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• Reheat: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQ: Easy Hobo Casserole

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the recipe instructions.
• Do I have to use both types of soup?
  No, you can use just one type of soup if that’s what you have on hand. However, using both adds depth and flavor to the casserole.
• Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
  While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own cheese from a block will melt more smoothly since it doesn’t contain anti-caking agents.

Pairing Suggestions for Hobo Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as garlic bread or a crisp garden salad. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to add freshness to the meal.

conclusion

This Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a simple, comforting, and filling meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it ideal for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings. Try it out, and be sure to share this recipe with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes like this one.

Print