Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hobo Casserole is everything you want in a meal—quick, easy, and full of flavor. The combination of ground beef (or turkey), creamy mushroom soup, and sharp cheddar cheese creates layers of taste that are sure to satisfy your hunger. The potatoes add a nice starchy base, and the dish bakes to perfection with golden cheese on top. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal that cuts down on cleanup time, making it ideal for busy days. You can also tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand, so it’s easily customizable!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or substitute ground turkey)
4 cups diced peeled potatoes (small cubes)
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup whole milk
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a skillet; sauté diced onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the diced potatoes evenly across the bottom.
Spoon the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef and potatoes, ensuring it’s well distributed.
Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
After 40 minutes, uncover the casserole and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein such as lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat.
Add Veggies: You can include other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Swap: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different twist.
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Potato Variations: If you prefer, you can use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and a nutritional boost.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just cover it with foil and bake as instructed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake according to the instructions.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. It will still provide great flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

It’s best to use fresh diced potatoes for this recipe. However, if using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack. Choose a cheese that melts well for the best results.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for added flavor.

What can I serve this casserole with?

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables.

Can I use a different type of soup?

You can try substituting the cream of mushroom soup with other cream soups, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery, depending on your preference.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based milk and cream soup.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.

Conclusion

This Easy Hobo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home. With tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy mushroom sauce, it’s a dish that’s simple to make and sure to satisfy. Whether you make it for dinner tonight or save it for later, it’s a recipe everyone will love.