Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef: A Hearty One-Pan Comfort Classic

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that brings together savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in one delicious dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this hearty casserole delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. The combination of seasoned beef, caramelized onions, and creamy potatoes creates a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Originating from campfire cooking traditions, this ground beef casserole has evolved into a beloved family favorite. The layers of flavor develop beautifully as the ingredients bake together, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this hobo dinner casserole is both budget-friendly and packed with protein-rich ingredients.

Quick Recipe Highlights

• Flavor Profile: Savory ground beef with aromatic onions and garlic, balanced by creamy potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese.
• Texture: Tender potatoes contrast with the slightly crisp topping, while the melted cheese adds a gooey richness.
• Aroma: The scent of browning beef with caramelizing onions and herbs will make your mouth water.
• Visual Appeal: Golden cheese topping with flecks of green herbs makes this casserole picture-perfect.
• Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple chopping and layering techniques.
• Special Equipment: Just a large skillet and 9×13 baking dish required.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: This hobo casserole recipe is perfect for beginners with straightforward steps and common ingredients.
• Category: Hearty main dish that works as both comfort food and family dinner solution.
• Cuisine: American comfort food with roots in campfire cooking traditions.
• Cost: Budget-friendly at approximately $1.50 per serving using basic ingredients.
• Season: Perfect for cooler months but delicious year-round.
• Occasion: Ideal for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole

The magic of this ground beef and potato casserole lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The savory beef forms a rich base, while the potatoes absorb all the delicious juices as they bake. When the cheese melts over the top, it creates that irresistible golden crust that makes comfort food so satisfying.

From a practical standpoint, this easy hobo dinner checks all the boxes: minimal cleanup (just one skillet and baking dish), affordable ingredients, and leftovers that taste even better the next day. The recipe is incredibly forgiving too – you can adjust the seasonings, swap vegetables, or change up the cheese to suit your preferences.

Nutritionally, this beef and potato casserole delivers a complete meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables all in one dish. The potatoes provide potassium and fiber, while the ground beef offers iron and B vitamins. Using lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheese can make it even healthier without sacrificing flavor.

For entertaining, this casserole shines as a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up. It’s the perfect dish to bring to potlucks or serve at casual gatherings where you want hearty, satisfying food without spending hours in the kitchen. The rustic presentation makes it feel homey and inviting.

Economically, this recipe makes the most of inexpensive ingredients. Ground beef, potatoes, and basic pantry staples transform into a meal that feels special enough for company but costs less than $10 to make. It’s the definition of comfort food that doesn’t break the bank.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onions over medium heat until beef is cooked through.
3. Add garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute more.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup and milk until well combined.
5. Layer half the potato slices in the prepared baking dish.
6. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
7. Top with remaining potato slices and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 35 minutes, then remove foil and sprinkle with cheese.
9. Return to oven for 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let stand 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.

Recipe Notes

• For extra flavor, try adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freeze before baking for an easy make-ahead meal.