Super Easy Dinner – Hobo Casserole
Looking for a quick, comforting dinner recipe that’s packed with flavor? This Hobo Casserole recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s customizable, budget-friendly, and easy to make ahead!
What is Hobo Casserole?
The term “hobo” in cooking often refers to simple, one-pot meals that bring together easy-to-find ingredients in a comforting, no-fuss way. Hobo Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that layers ground beef, potatoes, veggies, and cheese, all baked into a delicious, cheesy dinner that’ll satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for this classic Hobo Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a twist)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
Optional add-ins:
- Bell peppers, diced
- Frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
- Chopped bacon for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the potatoes thinly and chop the onion and any additional veggies.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add ground beef. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Pro Tip: To speed up your prep, use a food processor to slice potatoes quickly and evenly.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large, greased baking dish, layer the potatoes evenly along the bottom.
- Spread the cooked ground beef over the potatoes, followed by the chopped onions.
- Pour the cream of mushroom soup over the beef and onions, spreading it to cover the ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Bake and Add Cheese
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove the foil, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tip: For a crispier, golden cheese top, switch your oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The layers will be perfectly cooked, and the cheese will be melted to perfection. Serve it on its own or pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Customizing Your Hobo Casserole
One of the best parts of this dish is how flexible it is! Try these variations to switch it up:
- Swap the protein: Use ground chicken, sausage, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Add extra veggies: Sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach are great add-ins to pack in more nutrition.
- Change the soup: Substitute cream of mushroom with cheddar cheese soup or cream of celery for a different flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Hobo Casserole checks all the boxes: it’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a cozy, comforting meal, this casserole is bound to become a go-to favorite.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Enjoy!
