Cheesy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes

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Anne J. Pascale

This casserole combines ground beef, potatoes, and cheese for a satisfying and hearty dish. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The layers meld together perfectly, offering comfort in every bite.

Why you’ll love this dish

This recipe is a one-pan meal that delivers on flavor and ease. The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and creamy potatoes creates a balanced and enjoyable dish.

"Great for a crowd; everyone went back for seconds!"

It’s filling and adaptable, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

The cooking process explained

Start by browning the beef, then layer it with sliced potatoes and cheese in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly. It’s straightforward and requires minimal hands-on time.

Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 45 min | Total Time: 60 min

What you’ll need

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: garlic powder, paprika

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture with the cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
  4. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Add half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of cheese.
  5. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and potatoes are tender.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Add hot sauce for extra kick or sour cream for creaminess. This dish pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

Storage and reheating tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Helpful cooking tips

  • Thinly slice the potatoes for even cooking.
  • Use a mandoline for fast, uniform slices.
  • For a variation, add cooked vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.

Creative twists

  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • Use sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • Try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added spice.

FAQ

Can I use a different soup?
Yes, cream of chicken or a cheese soup works well too.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can make a homemade version using low-fat milk, flour, and seasonings as a thickener.

Print
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Beef and Potato Casserole


  • Author: tastytasty
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Omnivore

Description

A hearty casserole of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: garlic powder, paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Brown the ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  3. Combine the beef mixture with the cream of mushroom soup. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
  4. Grease a baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes.
  5. Add half of the beef mixture over the potatoes, followed by a layer of cheese.
  6. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
  7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and potatoes are tender.

Notes

Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Great for leftovers; store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: casserole, beef, potatoes, cheese, comfort food, easy dinner

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