The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

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Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this hearty and flavorful Hobo Casserole. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, creamy potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and tender vegetables, this dish is everything you want on a cozy evening. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a big warm hug—rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

This casserole brings together humble ingredients into something truly special. The layers of savory beef, mixed vegetables, and cheesy mashed potatoes come together in a delicious harmony that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing meals ahead, Hobo Casserole is always a smart and tasty choice.

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Ingredients for The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped chives or parsley

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Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and thinly slicing the potatoes. You want them to be about ⅛-inch thick so they cook evenly. Parboil them in salted water for about 5 minutes to soften them slightly. Drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until they begin to soften—about 3–4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

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Step 3: Add Soup and Veggies

Once the beef is browned, stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup. Mix in the frozen peas and carrots. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until everything is well combined and warmed through.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Spread the beef and veggie mixture evenly over the potatoes. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef layer. Add the remaining potato slices on top, and finish with another layer of cheese.

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Step 5: Bake and Serve

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the potatoes are fork-tender. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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Storage Instructions

Hobo Casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers and meal prepping. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole (in a freezer-safe container) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes until heated through.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~430 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on exact ingredients and portions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat.

2. What kind of ground meat can I use?

Ground beef is classic, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless alternative for a vegetarian twist.

3. Can I substitute fresh vegetables for frozen?

Absolutely. Fresh peas, carrots, or even green beans work great—just sauté or steam them briefly before adding.

4. What other cheese can I use?

Cheddar is delicious, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can be used for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I know when it’s fully cooked?

The cheese should be golden and bubbling, and the potatoes should be fork-tender. A knife inserted into the middle should glide through easily.

6. Can I add more seasoning or spice?

Yes, you can spice it up with paprika, cayenne, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for more depth.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written—cream of mushroom soup usually contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free soup or make your own.

8. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cream soup alternative and vegan cheese shreds to suit your dietary needs.

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