Easy Hobo Casserole
A comforting and hearty one-dish meal made with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, creamy soups, and gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients
For the casserole
- 1 pound ground beef Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 cup onion, diced Sweet onions add a fantastic aromatic base.
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced Fresh garlic brings a robust depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth and kick.
- 5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced Use russet or Yukon gold for their creaminess.
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.7 oz) For a rich and creamy texture.
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (10.7 oz) Complements the mushroom soup beautifully.
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 oz) Adds creaminess and binds all flavors.
- 1/2 cup milk Balances the richness of the soups.
- 2 cups shredded cheese Use your favorite cheese for the top layer.
- as needed spray cooking spray Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the beef, onions, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the cooked beef mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the cooked beef mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together both condensed soups, the evaporated milk, and milk until smooth. Pour half of this mixture over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, beef, soup mixture, and cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil, tenting it to prevent sticking.
Cooking
- Bake for 1 hour, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let the casserole stand for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, toss in sliced bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef and onions. Consider using a mix of cheeses for an even richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter dish, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. Leftover casserole tastes even better the next day.