Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
A comforting casserole that combines ground beef, creamy potatoes, and melty cheddar cheese, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1.5 lb lean ground beef Perfectly seasoned and juicy
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced For aromatics and richness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth to the flavor
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Enhances the umami taste
- 1 tsp kosher salt, divided For seasoning perfection
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked For a touch of spice
Potatoes and Dairy
- 2.5 lb russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick for tender layers
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup For creamy consistency
- 0.75 cup whole milk Adds creaminess
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder Enhances the garlicky flavor
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese For a gooey topping
- 1 tbsp butter For greasing the dish
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or chives Optional, for fresh garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with butter.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for 7-9 minutes until the beef is browned.
- Drain any excess fat, then stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, garlic powder, and the remaining salt until smooth.
Assembly
- Arrange half of the potato slices in the prepared dish.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the potatoes, followed by the remaining potato slices.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 55-65 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Serving
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Top with parsley or chives.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute turkey for beef, or use sweet potatoes. You can also add vegetables for extra nutrition.