Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a classic, no-fuss dish that’s packed with hearty flavors and simple ingredients. It’s got tender ground beef, comforting potatoes, and a cheesy topping that comes together in one easy-to-make casserole. The best part is how it turns everyday pantry staples into a warm, satisfying meal.
I love making this casserole on busy weeknights when I want something filling but don’t feel like spending a lot of time cooking. It’s one of those dishes where everything cooks together in one pan, so the clean-up is a breeze too. I usually throw in some onions and a few spices to keep it flavorful without any fuss.
One of my favorite ways to serve hobo casserole is with a side of green beans or a simple salad to brighten it up. It’s a real crowd-pleaser too—whenever I bring it to potlucks or family dinners, it disappears fast. If you’re looking for a comforting, easy meal that everyone will love, this casserole is a go-to in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the casserole. I like to use 80/20 lean for good flavor without too much grease. If you want a leaner dish, go for 90/10, or try ground turkey as a lighter option.
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold. They cook soft and soak up flavors well. Sweet potatoes make a great twist if you want a slightly sweeter taste and more nutrients.
Onions: Yellow onions add nice sweetness when baked. You could swap in white or red onions if that’s what you have. Sautéing them first is optional but gives extra flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a punchy, creamy topping. If you want less intensity, mild cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar works well. Dairy-free cheese can be used for lactose intolerance.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder deepen the taste easily. Feel free to add a pinch of chili powder or Italian herbs to change things up.
How Can You Make Sure the Potatoes Cook Perfectly in the Casserole?
Getting tender potatoes in this layered bake can be tricky. Here’s what I do:
- Slice your potatoes evenly to about 1/4 inch thick so they cook evenly.
- Pour a little water or broth over the layers—this creates steam and helps soften the potatoes as they bake.
- Cover the casserole tightly with foil during the first part of baking to keep moisture in.
- Test doneness by poking a potato slice with a fork before adding cheese. If it feels firm, bake a little longer.
Following these tips will help you get soft, well-cooked potatoes without drying out the casserole.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly before layering.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing potatoes and onions neatly.
- Baking dish or oven-safe skillet – holds all layers and goes straight into the oven.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole and keep moisture in while baking.
- Measuring spoons – to get your seasonings just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra earthiness and texture.
- Mix in bell peppers or diced tomatoes for a fresh, colorful boost.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, sliced into rings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ cup water or beef broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 60 minutes to bake. Most of the time the dish is in the oven, letting the potatoes soften and cheese melt to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, stirring constantly, until browned and crumbly. Drain any extra fat if needed. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well, then remove from heat.
2. Layer the Casserole:
Lightly grease an oven-safe baking dish or skillet. Spread half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom. Next, add a layer of onion rings on top of the potatoes. Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly over the onions. Then layer the remaining potato slices on top.
3. Bake and Add Cheese:
Pour ¼ cup of water or beef broth evenly over the layers to keep the casserole moist while baking. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh color and added flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven browning.
Can I Substitute Potatoes with Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor and extra nutrition. Just slice them similarly and keep an eye on cooking time, as they may soften a bit faster than regular potatoes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth before reheating helps keep the casserole moist.
Is It Possible to Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the potatoes are tender.
