Description
This hearty Hobo Casserole Ground Beef recipe combines layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, tender potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese into a comforting baked dish perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
Dairy and Soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease, then season the mixture with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Casserole: Begin layering your casserole by spreading the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Next, add a layer of the cream of mushroom soup, followed by a layer of thinly sliced potatoes. Drizzle the melted butter over the potatoes and season with salt and pepper for seasoning balance.
- Add the Cheese: Pour the milk evenly over the casserole layers to add moisture and richness. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top to create a golden, cheesy crust as it bakes.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the potatoes to become tender and the cheese to turn golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve: Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, colorful finish before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly to ensure they cook evenly within the baking time.
- Draining excess grease from the cooked ground beef helps reduce fat content and prevents a greasy casserole.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor twist.
- Using fresh herbs like parsley or chives as garnish adds a burst of color and fresh taste.
- To make the casserole ahead, assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
