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Hobo Casserole Recipe

Featured in Food for the Family.

Hobo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that's as satisfying as it is simple. This hearty dish features layers of ground beef, thin-sliced potatoes, a creamy soup blend, and melty cheese—all baked to perfection in one pan. It's ideal for weeknight dinners, feeding a crowd, or when you want something warm and filling without much fuss. The ingredients are budget-friendly and the steps are straightforward, making it great for busy families. Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the layers hold together better and enhances flavor. Serve it solo or with a green salad for balance.
Soo Ben
Updated on Sat, 05 Apr 2025 17:26:59 GMT
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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes | mamamiakitchen.com

Looking for a comforting, old-school dinner that pleases the whole family and doesn’t break the bank? This easy hobo casserole with ground beef and potatoes is a timeless dish that generations have loved—known by some as old-fashioned hobo casserole, Beef Supreme, or even a ground beef casserole with potatoes and cheese. Whatever name you call it, this hearty one-dish wonder is packed with flavor and nostalgia.

I rediscovered this recipe tucked in my old recipe box—a favorite my grandma used to make. She called it Beef Supreme, but my mom always called it Hobo Casserole. It’s warm, cheesy, filling, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re looking for a cozy hobo casserole with potatoes for a busy weeknight or something to take to a potluck, this is a sure winner.

Whether you’ve seen this on Allrecipes or TikTok, or tried the chicken hobo casserole with ground beef and potatoes variation, it’s a dish that always satisfies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb ground beef: Use lean or regular ground beef. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds aromatic depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh is best, but jarred works too.
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: Or Yukon Golds for a creamier texture.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 3/4 cup evaporated milk: Adds richness (whole milk also works).
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Divided for layering and topping.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.
  • Optional add-ins: Worcestershire sauce, frozen peas, green beans, or corn
  • 💡 For extra depth and heat: Consider chipotle powder, chili flakes, or jalapeños for a spicy twist.

How to Make Hobo Casserole (Step-by-Step)

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Homemade Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain excess grease and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and evaporated milk. Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce if using.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the soup mixture on top and spread evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the layer. Repeat the layers with remaining beef, soup mixture, and cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers can set.

Make It Your Own – Variations to Try

  • Hobo Casserole with Red Lobster Biscuit Mix: Use biscuit dough as a bottom layer for a fun twist.
  • Slow Cooker Cattle Drive Casserole Version: Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
  • Hamburger Potato Casserole Without Soup: Use a homemade béchamel sauce instead.
  • Chicken Hobo Casserole Variation: Swap beef for shredded rotisserie chicken and try a mix of mozzarella and cheddar.
  • Add Vegetables: Peas, carrots, corn, or green beans work well.
  • Top It Off: Add crushed French fried onions or buttery Ritz cracker crumbs before baking for crunch.

How to Store and Reheat

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Cool completely, then wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

To Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F until hot (20–30 minutes). Microwave works too, but may soften the top.

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Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes Recipe | mamamiakitchen.com

What to Serve with Hobo Casserole

  • Salads: Simple green salad or broccoli salad.
  • Veggies: Roasted carrots, sautéed zucchini, or steamed green beans.
  • Bread: Garlic bread, crusty rolls, or cornbread.

This old fashioned hobo casserole with ground beef and potatoes is the kind of meal that reminds you why comfort food is always a good idea. With creamy sauce, tender potatoes, and cheesy layers of flavor, it’s one of those ground beef casseroles that never goes out of style. Try it once and you’ll see why it’s a family favorite passed down for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.
Can I freeze hobo casserole before baking?
Yes, assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What can I use instead of canned soups?
You can use homemade béchamel or creamy mushroom/chicken sauce as a substitute for condensed soups.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Peas, corn, green beans, or even spinach can be mixed into the beef layer.

Hobo Casserole

Classic hobo casserole with beef, potatoes, and creamy cheese layers.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
90 Minutes
Total Time
105 Minutes
By: Sou

Category: Family Dinners

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Hobo Casserole

01 1 pound ground beef
02 1 cup onion, diced
03 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
04 1 teaspoon salt
05 1 teaspoon black pepper
06 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
07 1 (10.7 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
08 1 (10.7 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
09 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
10 1/2 cup regular milk
11 2 cups shredded cheese
12 Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F and coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 02

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onions and garlic until beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and season with salt and pepper.

Step 03

Layer thinly sliced potatoes across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add half of the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.

Step 04

In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, and regular milk. Pour half of this mixture over the beef and potatoes, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.

Step 05

Repeat with another layer of potatoes, remaining beef, and the rest of the soup mixture. Finish with the remaining cheese on top.

Step 06

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil, tenting it slightly so it doesn't touch the cheese. Bake for 1 hour.

Step 07

Remove foil and continue baking for 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 08

Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  1. Use a mandoline slicer for even potato slices to ensure even cooking.
  2. Pre-chopped onions and garlic save time during prep.
  3. Allowing the dish to rest before serving helps the layers set.
  4. You can broil the casserole briefly at the end for a golden top.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Aluminum foil

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy
  • Gluten

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 441
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~