Go Back
Featured image of a delicious Hobo Casserole, perfect for a comforting meal.

Easy Hobo Casserole

This Easy Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family meal. It features seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, all baked to golden perfection. It's simple to make and easily customizable to your favorite ingredients.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables frozen peas, carrots, and corn
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced about 1/4 inch thick
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Potato masher
  • Large bowl
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven
  • Pot

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Pour the ground beef mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  6. While the meat mixture is simmering, cook the sliced potatoes in boiling water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
  7. In a large bowl, mash the cooked potatoes with milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture in the baking dish.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the potato topping is lightly golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
  10. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer potato topping, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like green beans or bell peppers. You can also substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup. A dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add extra flavor. The casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, adding 15 minutes to the baking time. Broil for the last few minutes for a more golden-brown topping. Add cheese for a cheesy variation.