Sometimes you just need a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick and simple to make. Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole checks all the boxes with its layers of ground beef, creamy soup, tender potatoes, and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to use pantry staples to create a delicious, satisfying dish. Let’s explore everything you need to know to make this classic casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything baked in one dish.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients for Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole
Core Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended) | 1 pound |
| Russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced | 4-5 medium |
| Large onion, finely diced | 1 |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 10.5 oz (1 can) |
| Cream of chicken soup | 10.5 oz (1 can) |
| Chicken or beef broth | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Sour cream | 1/4 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Creole seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| French’s Fried Onions | 1 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Optional Additions
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots, diced | 1 cup |
| Red bell pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Cajun seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, broth, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning (if using).
- Whisk until smooth and set aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the diced onions and optional vegetables (like carrots and red bell pepper) over the potatoes.
- Spread the cooked ground beef over the vegetables.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all layers are coated.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and French’s Fried Onions on top.
- Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional seasoning, if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Tips for Success
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings: Customize the spice level with more Creole or Cajun seasoning.
- Add Texture: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
- Pre-Cook Vegetables: Sauté carrots, peppers, or garlic before adding them to the casserole for enhanced flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
Variations to Try
1. Vegetarian Hobo Casserole
- Replace ground beef with lentils, black beans, or plant-based meat alternatives.
2. Southwest Twist
- Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a southwestern flavor.
3. Extra Cheesy Delight
- Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a gooey, cheesy layer.
4. Low-Carb Option
- Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets or zucchini slices.
5. Breakfast Style
- Use breakfast sausage instead of ground beef and top with scrambled eggs.
FAQs About Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef.
2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Layer the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
5. What can I serve with hobo casserole?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
6. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Conclusion: Comfort Food Made Easy
Quick and easy hobo casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy families. With its rich layers of potatoes, beef, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for dinner tonight or prepping it for later, this casserole is versatile, hearty, and guaranteed to become a favorite.
Give this recipe a try and share it with your loved ones. Don’t forget to add your own twist and make it uniquely yours!
Print
Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty and comforting classic, Quick and Easy Hobo Casserole layers tender potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
- 4–5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced or diced
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup (1 can)
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French’s Fried Onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, broth, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning (if using).
- Whisk until smooth and set aside.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the diced onion and any optional vegetables (like carrots or bell pepper) over the potatoes.
- Spread the cooked ground beef over the vegetable layer.
- Pour the prepared soup mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all layers are coated.
5. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and French’s Fried Onions on top.
- Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional seasoning if desired.
Notes
- Pre-Cook Vegetables: For enhanced flavor, sauté carrots, peppers, or garlic before adding them to the casserole.
- Even Potato Slices: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
