Description
Hearty hobo casserole brings comfort and nostalgia to dinner tables with classic ground beef and potato magic. Simple ingredients combine into a satisfying meal that reminds you of home-cooked warmth and delicious family traditions.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein:
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Seasonings and Dairy:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) milk
- 1 ½ cups (170 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking vessel by coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light layer of grease, ensuring the surface is evenly protected. Set the oven temperature to 375F (190C) for optimal cooking conditions.
- In a large skillet, transform the ground beef and diced onions over medium heat, continuously stirring until the meat develops a rich, brown color and the onions become translucent. Eliminate excess fat through careful draining. Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Create a smooth, creamy sauce by whisking the cream of mushroom soup and milk in a separate mixing bowl until the consistency is uniform and free of lumps.
- Construct the casserole in strategic layers: spread a foundation of potato slices across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Distribute half of the seasoned meat mixture evenly over the potatoes. Cascade half of the soup blend across the meat layer. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, meat, and soup mixture. Crown the creation with a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese, then drizzle melted butter to add a final touch of richness.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Allow it to bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes. The dish is ready when the potatoes reach a tender consistency and the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling surface.
- After removing from the oven, let the casserole rest and settle for 5-10 minutes. This brief waiting period allows the ingredients to meld and stabilize. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the top for a vibrant garnish that adds both color and a subtle herbal note.
Notes
- Customize the meat to suit different dietary preferences by substituting ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for a lighter, leaner version.
- Layer thinly sliced potatoes for faster and more even cooking, ensuring each bite has a perfect blend of crispy edges and tender center.
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the ground beef mixture, bringing depth and aromatic richness to the classic comfort dish.
- Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium cream of mushroom soup and controlling salt quantities, making the casserole more heart-friendly without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg