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Hobo Casserole

This Easy Hobo Casserole is a comforting blend of ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef, 85 to 90 percent lean Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups thinly sliced russet or Yukon gold potatoes Slice evenly for consistent cooking.
  • 1 can condensed cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, 10.5 ounces Can substitute with a homemade sauce.
  • 1/2 cup milk or beef broth Use to loosen the soup.
  • 1 to 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables or fresh sliced carrots and peas Can customize based on preference.
  • 1 and 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or a blend like cheddar jack Cheese can be varied based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder For a little warmth.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted Plus nonstick spray for greasing the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat with the onion and garlic, seasoned with half the salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together the condensed soup and milk or broth until smooth.
  4. Layer half the potatoes in the dish, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then top with half the beef mixture and half the vegetables. Drizzle on half the soup mixture. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  6. Remove foil, sprinkle on the cheese, drizzle with melted butter, and bake uncovered for another 12 to 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Slice potatoes thin for even cooking. The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Leftovers taste even better the next day.