A Cozy Favorite Straight from Grandma’s Cast Iron Skillet
If there’s one dish that takes me straight back to cozy evenings at my Nonna’s table, it’s this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. While its roots are more American than Italian, it’s a hearty, nostalgic meal that reminds me of the times we’d share stories by the fireplace, especially during the colder months. But this dish is so flexible—it works just as beautifully at a summer potluck as it does on a winter weeknight.
I remember the first time I tried this dish: I was visiting a family friend in the Midwest. She called it “hobo casserole,” a name that speaks to its simplicity and practicality. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it quickly became one of my favorite comfort foods. Of course, I had to give it a little Italian flair—adding fresh herbs, a splash of cream, and a touch of garlic.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare with minimal prep time
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- One-dish wonder—perfect for busy families
- Customizable for both summer and winter
- Ideal for make-ahead meals and meal prepping
Looking for more easy, delicious dinners? Try this Easy Broccoli Alfredo Pasta – Nutritious & Delicious.
Ingredients (Serves 10)
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for flavor)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade if you prefer)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Craving more baked comfort food? You’ll love this Ultimate Chicken Cobbler Recipe — it’s just as cozy and easy to prepare.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Beef & Onions
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Break the meat up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Season the Mixture
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and slice potatoes thinly—about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. You can use a mandolin for speed and consistency.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish. Spoon half the beef mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Have leftover casserole? Learn how to store and reheat it properly just like the Reheat Chicken Cobbler Tips guide explains.
Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef mixture.
Step 5: Add the Creamy Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream. Pour evenly over the casserole.
Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
A comforting plate of beef and potatoes to warm your soul
Tips & Variations
- Add vegetables: Layer in thin slices of zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for more nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Swap the soup: Use cream of chicken or even sour cream and milk for a lighter version.Check out the Best Way to Cook Polish Kielbasa if you go that route.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh the next day.
- Freezer-friendly: Store baked casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven covered with foil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven. You may need to add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.
What type of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold up well during baking and have a nice starchy texture. However, Yukon Golds are also a great alternative for a slightly creamier result.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap the cheese for your favorite plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cream or coconut cream in place of heavy cream. Be sure to choose a dairy-free mushroom soup or make your own from scratch.
Can I freeze hobo casserole?
Yes, this recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap it well in foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.
What other proteins can I use instead of beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage. For a vegetarian version, consider lentils or plant-based crumbles as a protein substitute.
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
Ingredients
Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika optional
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter cut into small pieces
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a deep casserole dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix until smooth.
- Start by layering half the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish. Spread half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour a third of the soup mixture on top.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef. Pour remaining soup mixture evenly over the top. Dot with butter pieces. Cover tightly with foil.
- Bake covered for 45 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Remove foil, top with shredded cheddar, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
Conclusion
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes – Quick & Delicious! is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting dish that bridges generations, seasons, and even cultures. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cold winter night or serving it at a laid-back summer BBQ, this casserole delivers every time.
It’s the kind of meal that brings people together. The aroma alone will call your family to the table, and every cheesy, beefy bite is a reminder of why home-cooked food will always have a special place in our hearts. Plus, with its versatility and ease, this recipe is a guaranteed staple for any busy cook’s repertoire.
Let me know if you’d like me to generate the Schema Markup for this article or prepare a Pinterest-friendly image layout for your blog post!
What to Serve With Hobo Casserole
- Summer Pairing: Light garden salad with lemon vinaigrette, iced tea, or lemonade.
- Winter Pairing: Roasted Brussels sprouts, crusty garlic bread, and a warm cup of cider.
🇺🇸 The American Comfort Classic
This dish speaks to classic American resourcefulness—making something incredibly satisfying with what’s on hand. From rural cabins to bustling kitchens, the hobo casserole has earned its place in our hearts. It’s no wonder why this dish is passed from one generation to the next.
