Save
This Hobo Casserole brings together layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar and crispy French fried onions. It’s a straightforward recipe designed to satisfy with rich, comforting flavors suitable for a hearty family meal or potluck gathering.
I first made this after finding a stash of potatoes and ground beef in the fridge needing to be used, and it quickly became a crowd-pleaser for my family’s weekend dinners.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: One pound lean ground beef provides a flavorful but not greasy protein base
- Diced yellow onion: Half a cup diced yellow onion for sweetness and aroma
- Green bell pepper: One green bell pepper diced adds a subtle, fresh bite
- Garlic: Two cloves garlic minced to infuse savory depth
- Russet potatoes: Two to three medium Russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced for hearty layers choose firm, unblemished potatoes for even baking
- Condensed cream of mushroom soup: One ten point seven five ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup offers creamy earthiness and binds layers together
- Sour cream: One cup sour cream adds richness and tang opt for full-fat for best flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese: One cup shredded cheddar cheese brings sharpness and melty goodness freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded
- Salt and pepper: Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning balance
- French fried onions: French fried onions for a crispy, savory topping that elevates texture
- Optional garnishes: Sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley are optional garnishes that freshen the dish visually and in flavor
How to Make It
- Sear the Ground Beef:
- Cook the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula. After about seven to ten minutes, once browned, add diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté together for five minutes until the vegetables soften and release their fragrance. This step builds the filling’s savory base.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until smooth. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the Russet potatoes. Arrange the slices evenly in two layers on the bottom of a greased nine by thirteen-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle salt and pepper lightly over each potato layer to enhance flavor throughout the bake.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the layered potatoes. Pour the cream sauce over the beef and veggies, spreading with a spatula to cover the surface fully.
- Add Cheese and Bake:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese distributed evenly. Place the dish in a preheated oven at three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred ninety degrees Celsius for thirty to thirty-five minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden.
- Add Final Crispy Touch:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and scatter French fried onions over the surface. Return it to the oven for an extra five minutes to crisp the topping. Let the casserole cool a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions or parsley if desired.
My favorite part is the French fried onions on top. They add a nostalgic crunch reminiscent of family holiday dinners when my grandmother would bring something similar. It always feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Flavor Boosters
Serve with a side green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs complements the flavors well. This casserole pairs nicely with crusty bread or a simple garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
In colder months, add hearty root vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the beef mixture. In summer, consider swapping potatoes with thinly sliced zucchini for a lighter take. Fresh herbs from the garden in spring make excellent garnishes.
Creative Twists
Friends who have made this for potlucks report it disappears quickly and invites requests for the recipe. It’s a simple dish with big appeal, perfect for bringing people together without fuss.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. The layered textures and flavors promise a rewarding meal every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of potatoes work best for this dish?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which softens nicely while baking and absorbs flavors well.
- → Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the ground beef mixture and slice the potatoes in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- → What is the purpose of the French fried onions topping?
They add a crispy texture and savory flavor contrast to the creamy, tender layers beneath.
- → Are there garnish suggestions to enhance flavor?
Sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley work well to add freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.