Easy Hobo Casserole Recipe: Hearty, Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner that comes together quickly and pleases everyone at the table? This Easy Hobo Casserole is the answer. Packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, veggies, and melty cheese, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, cold evenings, or simple family meals.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or stretching your grocery budget, this classic casserole delivers big-time comfort with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole
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✅ One-pan meal — less cleanup
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✅ Kid-friendly and customizable
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✅ Budget-conscious and hearty
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✅ Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
Ingredients
You’ll need:
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1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
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1 can cream of mushroom soup (or tomato soup)
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1 tsp paprika (optional, for added warmth)
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1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
In a large skillet or casserole dish, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed. Add garlic and onion; sauté until softened.
2. Add the Potatoes & Veggies
Stir in diced potatoes and mixed vegetables. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Mix the Sauce
Add the can of soup, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine everything evenly. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
4. Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve
Let cool slightly and serve hot. Optional: garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips & Variations
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Use frozen hash browns for a quicker prep.
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Add bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor.
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Top with crushed crackers or fried onions for a crispy finish.
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Swap the soup type for variety — cream of celery, tomato, or cheddar.
Storage & Reheating
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked casserole for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake covered at 350°F until hot.
A Classic Worth Keeping
This Easy Hobo Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish. It’s affordable, filling, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just want a low-fuss dinner, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
For more details, visit the full recipe