Looking for a comfort food classic with down-home flavor and easy prep? This Ground Beef Hobo Casserole hits all the right notes. It’s a hearty, layered bake of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and creamy mushroom soup—perfect for cozy nights or satisfying family dinners.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something fuss-free and filling, this dish brings rustic charm with minimal ingredients and big flavor. It’s also a budget-friendly favorite that turns pantry staples into something truly satisfying.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Go for lean ground beef (around 85% lean) to avoid too much grease, while still keeping plenty of flavor. If you’re using a fattier mix, be sure to drain off excess grease after browning to keep the casserole from getting too oily. You can also try ground turkey or a plant-based substitute for a lighter version.

Ingredients for the Ground Beef Hobo Casserole

1 lb ground beef
4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: garlic powder, paprika, chopped parsley for garnish

How To Make the Ground Beef Hobo Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Prep the Casserole Layers

Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the sliced potatoes on the bottom, followed by half the onion. Spoon over half the cooked beef. Repeat the layers once more.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered casserole.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Final Bake

Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and potatoes are tender.

Serving and Storing Your Hobo Casserole

This casserole is a full meal in itself but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies. It’s perfect for meal prepping—leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for easy reheat-and-eat dinners later on.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the full dish, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10–15 minutes of baking time if starting from cold.

Can I substitute the soup?

Yes! Try cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon golds or russet potatoes hold up well when baked and deliver a tender bite.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I add veggies to this?

Definitely! Sliced carrots, peas, or green beans layer in nicely with the potatoes and beef.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re loving this comforting classic, check out these other cozy meals:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich and savory option.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti when you want slow-cooked flavor.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese for a nostalgic twist.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole when you’re craving something decadent.
The Ultimate Taco Casserole if you like it bold and spicy.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you’ll have it ready for the next busy weeknight.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you add extra veggies? Try it with a different cheese? I love hearing your creative spins—and answering questions too. Let’s make dinner delicious together.

Find more daily meal ideas on my Pinterest @NinaDishes.

Ground Beef Hobo Casserole Made Easy

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Ground Beef Hobo Casserole is a hearty, rustic bake of layered ground beef, tender potatoes, onions, and creamy mushroom sauce, topped with melted cheddar. Perfect for easy family dinners or cozy comfort meals.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: garlic powder, paprika, chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Drain excess grease.

2. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half the sliced potatoes on the bottom, followed by half the onions, then half the beef. Repeat the layers.

3. In a bowl, whisk the cream of mushroom soup with milk. Pour evenly over the casserole layers.

4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes.

5. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.