Hearty Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Potato Bake

Hearty Ground Beef Potato Casserole Proper Comfort Food

By SandraJuly 4, 2025

Need a budgetfriendly family dinner This Ground beef potato casserole aka Hobo Casserole is pure comfort Easy cheesy ohsosatisfying Get the recipe now ... Healthy Eats

Table of Contents

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper comfort food? You know, that dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? This Ground beef potato casserole is just the ticket.

It's packed with hearty beef, fluffy potatoes, and lashings of cheesy goodness.

Brief Overview

The Hobo Casserole, or Ground beef casserole as some call it, is a classic. It's humble origins provide a hug in a dish.

It's easy to make, taking about an hour and 15 minutes total. This recipe makes 6 generous servings.

Main Benefits

This cheesy ground beef casserole is proper good for you. With a good mix of protein, carbs, and calcium. It's perfect for a family dinner casserole .

Plus, this easy casserole recipe is a sure fire winner.

Okay, Right Then, Let's Have a Go at This!

This Ground beef potato casserole recipe is based on a simple idea. Hearty ingredients, layered with love. It's surprisingly easy, even if you're not a whiz in the kitchen.

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. Based on the "Ground beef potato casserole" recipe, anyone can nail it.

Seriously, if I can, so can you! Don’t worry, this is very easy and is based on this recipe that I’ve prepared for you, Easy casserole recipe .

First, you'll need 1 pound of ground beef. Brown it with one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. This beef and potato bake foundation is where the magic starts.

Next, prep those spuds! Slice 4-5 medium russet potatoes really thin. A mandoline slicer is your best mate here.

Now, let's talk about the creamy sauce. Mix one can of cream of mushroom soup with half a cup of milk. Honestly, this step is dead easy.

Hearty Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Potato Bake presentation

Get Ready to Layer Like a Pro

Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish. Then, let's have a go at this assembly! Layer half the potatoes, then half the beef. Pour half the soup mixture over. Repeat!

Top with 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese. Then bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 45 minutes covered, then 15 minutes uncovered. Golden, bubbly cheese is your cue.

Let it rest for 5- 10 minutes before digging in. Garnish with parsley, if you're feeling fancy. Enjoy your comfort food casserole !.

Honestly, this is the best one pot beef and potato casserole you could ask for!. It is easy to make, easy to clean, and tastes like a feast.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!

Okay, right then, let's have a go at this Ground beef potato casserole recipe. It's easier than you think! We're aiming for that ultimate comfort food vibe here, a proper hobo casserole .

Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks

For this family dinner casserole , quality is key. Remember, happy ingredients make a happy meal! These are pretty straightforward but still keep a keen eye to the quality, and if you want to go crazy, experiment!

For the Beef Mixture:

1 lb (454g) ground beef (at least 80% lean). Look for a nice, red color! Avoid the grey stuff!
1 small yellow onion, diced. The smellier the better I reckon.
2 cloves garlic, minced. Always fresh garlic! The jarred stuff is a crime.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Don't skip this! It adds so much.
½ tsp paprika. Sweet or smoked, your call!.
Salt and black pepper, to taste. Don't be shy!

For the Casserole:

4-5 medium russet potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick). Try to be uniform in size!
1 (10.5 oz / 298g) can cream of mushroom soup. Or cream of chicken if you're not a mushroom fan.
½ cup (120ml) milk. Any kind works!
1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided. I'm all in the Cheesy ground beef casserole .

For Finishing:

Butter or non-stick cooking spray. For greasing the pan.
Chopped fresh parsley, optional. Adds a bit of colour.

Seasoning Notes: Amp Up the Flavor

Honestly, the right spices can make or break a dish. Essential spice combinations are so important to elevate the dish.

For our Ground beef casserole , paprika and Worcestershire sauce are essential . They give it that warm, savory depth. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of cayenne pepper is amazing! No Worcestershire sauce? A splash of soy sauce will do in a pinch.

It's not the same, but it works!

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need a fancy kitchen to make this beef and potato bake . Just the essentials.

9x13-inch baking dish. Glass or ceramic is fine.
Large skillet. For browning the beef.
Mixing bowl. To combine the soup and milk.
Sharp knife or mandoline. For slicing potatoes. Okay you don't need a mandoline, but it makes life SO much easier.

This recipe is a great candidate for One pot beef and potato casserole , but let's keep it classic for now.

It's a delicious and budget friendly casserole that makes great use of the ingredients. I hope you love this recipe!

Hearty Hobo Casserole: Ground Beef & Potato Bake

Okay, right then, let's have a go at this! So, I've been messing around in the kitchen again, and oh my gosh ! I’ve stumbled upon something truly special: a Ground beef potato casserole that I'm calling "Hearty Hobo Casserole".

It's basically a beef and potato bake, but it's so much more than that. Think your nan’s classic comfort food casserole , but with a few modern twists.

It’s a family dinner casserole guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Magic

First things first, before we even think about touching a pan, let's get organized. It's all about the mise en place , angelsoni! This means dicing one small yellow onion, mincing two cloves of garlic, and thinly slicing 4-5 medium russet potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick).

Honestly, a mandoline makes slicing potatoes a doddle and ensures they cook evenly. Get that oven preheating to 375° F ( 190° C) and grease your 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step-by-Step: Building the Casserole

This easy casserole recipe is ready in no time. Here's the lowdown:

Brown 1 lb (454g) ground beef in a skillet with your diced onion and garlic. Drain off any excess fat. No one wants a greasy casserole, right?
Stir in 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce and ½ tsp paprika , plus salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, so don't be shy with the seasoning.
In a bowl, mix 1 (10.5 oz / 298g) can of cream of mushroom soup with ½ cup (120ml) milk until smooth. Cream of chicken works too if you are out of mushroom.
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in your greased dish. Top with half the beef mixture, then half the soup mixture. Repeat.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes . Then, remove the foil, sprinkle with 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese , and bake for another 15 minutes , or until bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Casserole Game

A few expert tips for a truly awesome Ground beef casserole :

Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef. Doing it in batches ensures it browns properly.
Ensure your potatoes are fork-tender before removing the foil. If they're still firm, give it a few more minutes. If you like a sharp cheese, try sharp cheddar or Gruyere.
This is a budget friendly casserole , but you can easily elevate it by swapping the cheddar with a more fancy cheese.

Honestly, this one pot beef and potato casserole is a weeknight winner. Give it a go! I promise you won't regret it.

It's rustic, deeply satisfying, and perfect for a chilly evening. It's proper comfort food, innit?

Recipe Notes: Hobo Casserole Edition

Okay, right then, let's have a go at this. You've got the recipe for my Ground beef potato casserole , or as I like to call it, Hearty Hobo Casserole , now, let's chat about a few bits and bobs to make sure it goes off without a hitch.

I have made a Ground beef casserole or two in my life, trust me. This Potato casserole dish is so rewarding.

Serving Suggestions: Get Your Plating On

Honestly, presentation matters, even for comfort food casserole !

Plating: Scoop a generous portion onto a plate. Garnish with fresh parsley. Boom! Done.
Sides: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette? Cracking. Or steamed green beans. Lovely.
Drinks: A glass of red wine is delicious with this Beef and potato bake . Maybe a nice Cabernet Sauvignon? If you're not drinking, a good cuppa tea works too.

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh, Mate

Nobody wants soggy leftovers.

Fridge: Keep your Cheesy ground beef casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days . No problem.
Freezer: Freezing works! Wrap it well. It will keep for 2 months .
Reheating: Oven or microwave. Oven's best for crisping it up. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F .

Variations: Let's Get Creative

Fancy a change?

Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and milk. Easy peasy.
Seasonal Swap: Butternut squash instead of potatoes in autumn? Yes, please! A Family dinner casserole perfect for these days.

Nutrition Basics: What You're Getting

Just so you know what you are getting.

Simplified: This Budget friendly casserole is packed with protein, carbs, and flavour. The approximate values are 350-400 Calories, 25-30g of Protein, 20-25g of Fat and 20-25g of Carbohydrates per serving.
Benefits: Potatoes give you energy. Beef gives you iron and protein. It's a balanced One pot beef and potato casserole , even if it doesn't look like health food.

Honestly, have fun with it. Don't be scared to experiment. Cooking should be enjoyable! This Easy casserole recipe will become a family favourite.

I reckon you'll nail this Ground beef potato casserole , no problem at all!

Cheesy Comfort Ground Beef Potato Casserole Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Ground beef potato casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just add about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. Think of it like prepping your Sunday roast on a Saturday – saves time and the flavours meld together beautifully!

How do I store leftover Ground beef potato casserole?

Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through – about 20-25 minutes. Just like reheating a shepherd's pie, it's even better the next day!

Can I freeze Ground beef potato casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed in the recipe, adding extra baking time if needed. You can freeze individual portions as well for single serve meals.

What are some good variations I can make to my Ground beef potato casserole?

There are plenty of ways to spice up this classic! Try adding different cheeses like Gruyere or a sharp cheddar for a flavour kick. For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You could even throw in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies – just like jazzing up a jacket potato!

Is this Ground beef potato casserole healthy?

This casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal, but like most comfort foods, it's best enjoyed in moderation. To make it healthier, you can use leaner ground beef, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables. You could also try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with a lighter, homemade sauce. Consider using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for more nutritional value.

My potatoes are still hard, what did I do wrong?

If your potatoes are still firm after the recommended baking time, it's likely they weren't sliced thin enough. Make sure they're about 1/8-inch thick for even cooking. Also, ensure the casserole is covered tightly with foil during the initial baking period to trap moisture and help steam the potatoes. If they're still firm, add a bit more milk to the casserole and continue baking, covered, until tender. A mandoline is a great tool to slice them perfectly.