Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for busy nights when you want something simple but satisfying. It usually has ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes,…

By Grace • October 9, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you want something simple but satisfying. It usually has ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and sometimes some veggies mixed in, all baked together in one warm casserole dish. The combination of meaty, cheesy, and creamy textures makes it an easy crowd-pleaser.

I love making this casserole because it feels like a cozy, homemade meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. It’s one of those recipes where you can throw everything into a pan and let it do its magic in the oven. I also like to add a bit of extra seasoning or toss in whatever veggies I have on hand, like corn or peas, to give it a little extra flavor and color.

My favorite way to serve Hobo Casserole is straight from the oven with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables on the side. It’s great comfort food that fills you up without being complicated. Plus, leftovers heat up really well, so it’s perfect for reheating the next day or packing for lunch.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole, giving it a rich flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or try plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist.

Frozen Sliced Potatoes: These save time and add creaminess. If you prefer, use fresh peeled and thinly sliced potatoes, though cooking time may increase.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: It adds creaminess and depth of flavor. For a homemade version, mix cream, broth, and sautéed mushrooms. You can substitute cream of chicken or celery soup for variety.

Cheddar Cheese: Provides a melty, sharp finish. Feel free to mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different textures and flavors.

Sour Cream: Adds tang and richness. Greek yogurt works well as a substitute if you want a lighter option.

How Can I Keep the Casserole Moist & Flavorful?

Maintaining moisture is key for this bake since frozen potatoes can dry out. Here’s how to keep it perfect:

• Use the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream mix to coat the ingredients well; this adds moisture and flavor.
• Adding a bit of beef broth thins the mix and helps everything meld together.
• Cover the casserole tightly with foil during most of the baking to trap steam and prevent drying.
• Remove foil at the end to let the cheese brown without drying ingredients underneath.

With these tips, your casserole stays creamy inside and has that nice cheesy top. Letting it rest briefly after baking also helps the flavors settle and keeps the layers intact when serving.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic evenly.
• 9×13 inch casserole dish – roomy enough to layer all the ingredients without spills.
• Mixing bowl – handy for combining the soup, sour cream, and broth smoothly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – helps break up the meat and stir without scratching pans.
• Aluminum foil – essential for covering the casserole to keep moisture in while baking.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version that still tastes great.
• Add diced bell peppers or frozen corn for extra color and a little crunch.
• Mix in shredded mozzarella with cheddar for a creamier, milder cheese blend.
• Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder to give the beef a smoky or spicy kick.

How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 4 cups frozen sliced potatoes (hash browns or thin potato slices)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ¼ cup beef broth or water
• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Time Needed

This casserole takes about 20 minutes of prep time to cook the beef and assemble the layers. Then you’ll bake it covered for 50 minutes, and uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. After baking, let it rest 5 minutes before serving. Total time: about 1 hour 20 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef Mixture

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and mushrooms (if using), and cook another 2-3 minutes. Add ground beef, cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and beef broth (or water) until smooth and combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread half of the frozen sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Layer half of the beef mixture on top, then spoon half of the creamy soup mixture over the meat. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.

Repeat layers with remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and soup mixture. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

4. Bake and Serve

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 50 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh chives to add a fresh touch.

Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen?

Yes! Just peel and thinly slice fresh potatoes. Keep in mind they may take a bit longer to cook—add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time and check tenderness before serving.

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake covered for 60-70 minutes, then uncover and bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?

You can substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup, or make a quick homemade sauce by combining cream, sautéed mushrooms, and seasonings to keep that creamy texture and flavor.