Print

Hobo Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 11 reviews

Hobo Casserole is a comforting and hearty layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, creamy soups, and melted cheese baked to perfection. This classic recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining simple ingredients into a rich, cheesy casserole that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 can (10.7 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (with or without garlic added)
  • 1 can (10.7 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheese

Other

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9x13 inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat and season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Layer Potatoes and Beef: Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes over the bottom of the prepared baking pan, then spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
  4. Prepare Sauce and Layer: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, and regular milk until smooth. Pour half of this soup mixture over the beef layer and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
  5. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of the remaining potatoes, followed by the remaining beef mixture. Pour over the remaining soup mixture and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
  6. Cover with Foil: Tent a piece of aluminum foil over the baking pan, making sure it doesn't touch the cheese to prevent sticking or burning during baking.
  7. Bake Covered: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake covered for 1 hour.
  8. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the potatoes are tender.
  9. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes on a wire rack before slicing and serving to allow it to set properly.

Notes

  • For best results, slice the potatoes uniformly thin to ensure even cooking.
  • Drain the cooked beef well to reduce excess grease in the casserole.
  • If preferred, swap the shredded cheese for your favorite variety such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
  • You can make this casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking; just add extra baking time if baking cold.
  • Use foil to tent the casserole to avoid cheese sticking to the foil and to allow steam ventilation.