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Hobo Casserole Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake

Sarah
This Hobo Casserole Rustic Ground Beef and Potato Bake is classic comfort food at its best. Made with tender sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, onions, and a creamy savory sauce, this easy one-dish meal is hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and nostalgic flavor make this casserole a family favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 1½ lb ground beef 80/20 recommended
  • 4 –5 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes thinly sliced (about ⅛-inch)
  • 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese optional
  • Seasonings & Flavor Base
  • 1 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Pantry Staples
  • Butter or olive oil for greasing dish
  • Cooking spray optional
  • Dried parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Pre-Cooking Prep
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  • Thinly slice potatoes and onions.
  • Season ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Cooking Method
  • Arrange half of the potatoes evenly in the baking dish.
  • Layer half of the onions over the potatoes.
  • Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly on top.
  • Add remaining onions, then finish with the remaining potatoes.
  • In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup and milk until smooth.
  • Pour sauce evenly over the casserole.
  • Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
  • Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese if using, and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Doneness & Texture Check
  • Potatoes should be fork-tender
  • Beef fully cooked with no pink
  • Sauce creamy and lightly thickened
  • Resting & Final Touches
  • Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving
  • Garnish with dried parsley or fresh herbs if desired

Notes

  • Thin potato slices are key for even cooking.
  • Keep casserole covered for the first bake so steam softens the potatoes.
  • Potatoes absorb seasoning—taste and adjust salt if needed.