This Hobo Casserole is a cozy dish packed with ground beef, fresh veggies, and layers of cheesy goodness. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how it all cooks together in one pot—fewer dishes to wash later! Plus, you can get creative with the veggies you have on hand. It’s a win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I used 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re plant-based, look for meat substitutes made from soy or mushrooms.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. You can replace it with shallots for a milder flavor or skip it entirely if onion isn’t your thing.
Potatoes: I prefer using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. Yukon gold also works well! If you’re short on potatoes, sweet potatoes can bring a different, delicious flavor.
Green Bell Pepper: This adds color and crunch. Feel free to swap it out for red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, or use zucchini for a lighter texture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives a creamy base. You could replace it with cream of chicken or a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free option, choose a plant-based cream soup.
Sour Cream: It adds tanginess. Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for a healthier twist, or you can use dairy-free sour cream if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. You can switch to mozzarella or pepper jack for some kick!
How Can I Layer My Casserole Effectively?
Layering is key to making sure all ingredients meld nicely. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the sliced potatoes at the bottom. This creates a sturdy base.
- Evenly spread the ground beef mixture over the potatoes, ensuring every bite has flavor.
- Top with green bell peppers for freshness before pouring on the soup mixture to lock moisture in.
- Finish with remaining sliced potatoes for a top layer, which will hold everything together during baking.
Covering it with foil prevents the top from browning too soon. Just remember to remove it towards the end to achieve that golden, cheesy topping!
The Best Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, sliced (thinly)
- 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking beef)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hobo Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a hearty family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when you need to bake your casserole.
2. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and drain any excess grease.
3. Mix the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Stir them together until well combined; this will be your creamy layer for the casserole.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and start layering. First, put half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom. Next, evenly spread the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes. Then, add the chopped green bell pepper on top of the beef. Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over everything in the dish.
5. Finish Layering:
Now, top it off with the remaining sliced potatoes. This will create a nice, hearty layer on top of your casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. This will help the potatoes cook and absorb all those wonderful flavors.
7. Add Toppings:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and French fried onions over the top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the potatoes are tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Dig in and enjoy your delicious Hobo Casserole!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground beef. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster. Always make sure the meat is fully browned before adding to the casserole for the best flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with homemade cream of chicken soup or a can of cream of celery soup. If you want a lighter version, use a mixture of Greek yogurt and vegetable broth for a healthier option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for later use; just thaw in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave until hot.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding more veggies like carrots, corn, or green beans. Just remember to keep the total amount of vegetables similar to what the recipe calls for, so the cooking time remains consistent. Chop them into small pieces for even cooking!
