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Hobo Casserole

This Hobo Casserole is a classic comfort food made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. It's an easy, budget-friendly dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 1½ lbs ground beef
  • 4 medium russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Creamy Sauce
  • 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • Cheese
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Seasonings
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional Toppings
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Sliced green onions
  • Crispy fried onions

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about ⅛-inch thick). Set aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain excess grease if needed.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  6. Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Spread half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
  8. Spoon half of the creamy sauce over the beef and spread evenly.
  9. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  10. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, sauce, and cheese.
  11. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.
  12. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  13. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  14. Garnish with parsley, green onions, or crispy fried onions if desired

Notes

  • Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
  • Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for a lighter version.
  • Add vegetables such as mushrooms, corn, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.