When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than a warm, satisfying casserole fresh from the oven. If you’re looking for easy fall dinner ideas with ground beef, this Hobo Casserole is the perfect dish to add to your meal rotation. Made with scalloped potatoes, ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, and cheese, this ground meat potatoes recipe is rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make.
Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something warm and hearty, this super easy ground beef recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to make this Hobo Casserole, plus tips, variations, and serving ideas!
Por que Você vai Adorar Esta Receita
✔ Hearty & Satisfying – Perfect for cold nights when you need a filling meal.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses 1lb of ground beef, pantry staples, and affordable ingredients.
✔ Família-Amigável – A guaranteed hit for kids and adults alike!
✔ Easy to Prepare – Just layer, bake, and enjoy!
✔ Personalizável – Swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients for the Best Hobo Casserole
This recipe features simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – A key ingredient for a protein-packed meal.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth.
- 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes (or scalloped potatoes mix) – The base of the casserole.
- 1 lata (de 10,5 oz) de sopa de creme de cogumelo – Makes the dish creamy and rich.
- 1 xícara de queijo cheddar ralado – Melts into the casserole for extra flavor.
- ½ cup milk – Helps create a creamy texture.
- ½ Colher de chá de alho em pó – Adds subtle garlicky warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick.
Adições Opcionais:
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth to the beef.
- 1 colher de chá de paprika – For a mild smoky flavor.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – To add more nutrients.
- ½ cup sour cream – For a richer, creamier casserole.
How to Make Hobo Casserole
Este ground beef quick recipe is easy to make, requiring just a few steps.
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Pré-aqueça o forno a 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned.
- Drain excess grease, then season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- If using, stir in Worcestershire sauce and paprika for added flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and ground beef.
- In a bowl, mix sopa de creme de cogumelo e milk until smooth, then pour over the casserole.
- Sprinkle ralado e queijo cheddar evenly on top.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutos.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden.
Step 5: Let It Rest & Serve
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Hobo Casserole
✔ Use Thinly Sliced Potatoes – They cook more evenly and absorb more flavor.
✔ Let the Casserole Rest – This helps the layers set before serving.
✔ Pre-Cook the Potatoes for Speed – If in a hurry, parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes before layering.
✔ Customize It – Add more veggies or swap cheeses for a new twist!
Variations & Substitutions
Este Hamburger Hotdish recipe with ground meat is versatile! Try these variations:
1. Noodle Ground Beef Version
- Swap out potatoes for egg noodles, layer with beef, and bake for a pasta-style version.
2. Cheesy Tater Tot Hobo Casserole
- Replace potatoes with tater tots for a crispier, kid-friendly twist.
3. Mexican-Inspired Hobo Casserole
- Add taco seasoning to the beef and mix in black beans and corn.
- Top with Monterey Jack cheese and salsa.
4. Cream of Chicken & Ground Beef Casserole
- Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken para um sabor diferente.
5. Vegetarian Version
- Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth.
Servindo Sugestões
Este scalloped potato casserole with ground beef is a complete meal but pairs well with:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the richness.
- Steamed Vegetables – Adds extra nutrition and balance.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy side to complement the casserole.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Faz Frente
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate.
- When ready, bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at A 350°C (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave until warm.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.
- When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Why This is the Best Hobo Casserole Recipe
✅ Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – Simple ingredients come together for a comforting meal.
✅ Ótimo para Refeição Prep – Make ahead and reheat throughout the week.
✅ Personalizável – Adjust ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
✅ Perfeito para Qualquer Época do ano – A great easy fall dinner idea with ground beef but also comforting year-round.
Perguntas Mais Frequentes (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes! You can use frozen hashbrowns or frozen scalloped potatoes for convenience.
2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Layer everything in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours ou HIGH for 3-4 hours.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef.
4. What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack work well too.
5. Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and stuffing mix.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish
Este Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate easy fall dinner idea—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to satisfy.
Try this recipe today and let us know your favorite variations!
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