Hobo Casserole – Easy Ground Beef Comfort Meal

Hobo Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one comfort meal made with ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and melted cheese. It’s a quick, family-friendly casserole that works for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home. Each bite delivers tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and creamy melted cheese that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Dish Meal: Everything cooks together, making prep and cleanup easy.
• Hearty and Comforting: Tender ground beef, vegetables, and potatoes create a filling meal.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Swap vegetables or seasonings to match your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in mushrooms, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes.
5. Add diced potatoes, frozen vegetables, and drained tomatoes. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
8. Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until cheese melts and potatoes are tender.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Cheesy: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Add Heat: Sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Variations: Swap mushrooms for bell peppers or zucchini.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake the next day.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours, then add cheese at the end.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thawing: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Tip: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to maintain moisture.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up the juices.
• Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes. Ground turkey works well for a lighter version, though the casserole may be slightly less rich in flavor. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely. Dice fresh potatoes and vegetables evenly so they cook through in the same timeframe.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake slightly longer if chilled.

How do I make the casserole extra cheesy?

Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheese before baking uncovered, or add cheese between layers for more gooey texture.

You Might Also Like

• Lemon Rice Krispy Treats – Bright, chewy lemon bars everyone loves.
• Chocolate Strawberry Cake – Moist chocolate cake layered with fresh strawberry filling.
• Cheesy Taco Casserole – Taco-seasoned ground beef with beans, corn, and melted cheese.
• Easy Shepherd’s Pie – Ground beef, vegetables, and mashed potatoes baked in a comforting layer.

Print