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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

A hearty, budget-friendly casserole layering seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 medium potatoes thinly sliced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup 1 can
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar preferred
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • Mandoline slicer (optional)
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Peel potatoes and slice into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick. A mandoline slicer makes this easier but a sharp knife works fine.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion together until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  4. Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute seasonings evenly.
  5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
  6. Spread half of the seasoned ground beef mixture over the potato layer.
  7. Add remaining potato slices in an even layer, then top with remaining beef mixture.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth. Pour evenly over the casserole, allowing it to seep between the layers.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and drizzle with melted butter.
  10. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden at the edges.
  11. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier. Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale - Kitchen Equipment Recommendation

Notes

For best results, slice potatoes as thin as possible for even cooking. Ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option. Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach between layers for extra vegetables. Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking. Substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if preferred.