Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple to make? My Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This one-pan casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, using pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, and a creamy mushroom sauce. With a crispy topping of French fried onions, it’s a family favorite that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
French fried onions, for topping
Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Required Kitchen Tools
Preparing this hobo casserole is straightforward, but having the right kitchen tools makes the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s what I use:
Large Skillet or Frying Pan – To brown the ground beef and sauté vegetables evenly.
Mixing Bowl – To combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream for the sauce.
Baking Dish – I prefer a 9x13-inch dish for even layering and baking.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – Essential for slicing potatoes and dicing veggies safely.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon – For stirring the beef and vegetables while cooking.
With these tools ready, assembling the casserole is a breeze.
Preparing the Beef and Vegetables
The foundation of this casserole is a flavorful beef and veggie mixture. Here’s how I prepare it:
Browning the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
Sautéing Onions, Peppers, and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a small drizzle of oil if needed, then sauté the diced onion and green bell pepper until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then return the beef to the pan and mix well. This creates a savory base layer for the casserole.
Preparing the Creamy Sauce
I always find that a rich, creamy sauce ties the casserole together beautifully.
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with sour cream.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
This simple sauce will coat the layers of beef and potatoes, keeping the casserole moist and flavorful.
Assembling the Hobo Casserole
Now comes the fun part—layering everything into the baking dish.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread a thin layer of the beef and vegetable mixture on the bottom of your baking dish.
Layer a portion of thinly sliced potatoes over the beef.
Pour half of the creamy mushroom sauce over the potatoes.
Repeat the layers with the remaining beef mixture, potatoes, and sauce.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
By layering carefully, each bite gets a perfect mix of beef, potatoes, and creamy sauce.
Baking the Casserole
Bake the casserole uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. About 5 minutes before the end, I like to sprinkle French fried onions over the top for a golden, crispy finish.
Serving and Garnishing
Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the layers set slightly for easier serving. I love adding a sprinkle of sliced green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and watch it disappear at the dinner table!
Suggested Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with:
Steamed green beans or broccoli
A crisp side salad
Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
Storage Instructions
How to Keep Leftovers
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing the Casserole
This recipe also freezes well. Place portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Making this Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef has become one of my go-to weeknight meals. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor—all in one dish. From the creamy mushroom sauce to the crispy onion topping, every bite is a winner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers warmth, satisfaction, and minimal stress. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a classic, hearty casserole that’s as easy as it is delicious.
