Hobo Casserole is a hearty, rustic, and comforting dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This old-fashioned casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. The layers of sliced Russet potatoes soak up all the rich flavors from the beef and creamy mushroom sauce, while a crispy topping of French fried onions adds the perfect crunch.
What makes this dish truly special is its combination of textures and flavors—the creaminess of the soup and sour cream mixture balances the savory beef and vegetables, while melted cheddar cheese brings everything together. The best part? It’s easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite seasonings or extra toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Comfort Food Classic: A warm, filling casserole perfect for family meals.
• Easy and Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies or swap cheeses for variety.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 medium-sized Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 oz)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping & Garnish:
• French fried onions (for topping)
• Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is browned.
3. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet.
4. Sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
1. In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.
2. Stir until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
1. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, ensuring they are cut evenly for even cooking.
2. Arrange the potato slices in two layers in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
3. Lightly season each layer with salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the potatoes.
5. Pour the cream sauce over the beef and vegetables, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
1. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Add Crispy Topping & Finish Baking
1. Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle French fried onions over the top.
2. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are crispy.
3. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
1. Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Tips
• For Extra Flavor: Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef while cooking.
• Make It Cheesier: Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a richer cheese pull.
• Speed Up Cooking Time: Parboil the potato slices for 5 minutes before assembling the casserole to reduce bake time.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes, or microwave in short bursts.
