When it comes to comfort food that brings everyone to the table, nothing beats a bubbling dish of Hobo Casserole. This simple yet satisfying meal layers hearty potatoes with savory ground beef and melty cheese for a flavor-packed dinner that’s as easy to prepare as it is to love. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening—humble ingredients, big taste.

Hobo Casserole is a weeknight savior and a family favorite. With minimal prep and pantry staples, you can whip up a wholesome, filling meal that tastes like it took hours. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to meal prep for the week, this casserole delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole

Simple ingredients you likely already have.
One-dish meal that saves you time on cleanup.
Customizable with different veggies, spices, or cheeses.
Perfect for batch cooking or feeding a big family.
Comfort food classic that satisfies any appetite.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape during baking and deliver a creamy bite. However, russets can work too if you prefer a fluffier texture—just be sure to slice them thinly to cook evenly. The key is using fresh, firm potatoes that won’t turn mushy during baking.

Ingredients for the Hobo Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a delicious role. Potatoes bring heartiness, ground beef adds richness, and the melty cheese ties everything together into one crave-worthy dish.

Potatoes – The foundation of the dish; they absorb the flavors of the beef and spices while providing a satisfying texture.
Ground beef – A classic protein that gives the casserole its hearty, savory base.
Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the depth of flavor.
Garlic – Brings a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
Diced tomatoes – Offers juiciness and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.
Shredded cheese – Melts into gooey layers that bind everything together deliciously.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors to life.
Dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano) – Add earthiness and a cozy aroma.

How To Make the Hobo Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and slice your potatoes into thin, even rounds. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the diced tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, start with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by the beef mixture, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous cheese topping.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

How to Serve and Store Hobo Casserole

Hobo Casserole is a satisfying dish on its own, but it’s also easy to serve as part of a full meal. This recipe makes enough to feed 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size. It’s a great option for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before covering the dish or transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What to Serve With Hobo Casserole?

Crisp Green Salad

A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple, buttered green beans make a bright and wholesome side.

Garlic Bread

A warm slice of garlic bread helps soak up the saucy goodness.

Roasted Carrots

Add a pop of color and natural sweetness to the plate.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and tender mushrooms pair beautifully with the meaty flavors.

Applesauce

A classic comfort food combo – sweet applesauce brings a nostalgic touch.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

The tang cuts through the richness and adds a satisfying crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes add a unique twist with a hint of natural sweetness. Just slice them thin and follow the same steps. They also pair well with ground turkey if you want a leaner option.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, just add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through.

What kind of cheese is best?
Cheddar is the go-to choice, but you can mix it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Use whatever cheese you have on hand or love most.

Is this casserole gluten-free?
It can be! Just double-check the canned tomatoes and any seasonings to ensure they’re gluten-free. Everything else in the basic recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food or dinner ideas board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the protein or try extra veggies? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are always welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more recipes like this on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole is a nostalgic, budget-friendly meal that proves simple ingredients can create something truly comforting. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy night or preparing meals ahead of time, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and smiles every time. Make it your own and share the love at your table.

Hobo Casserole

Author: Sally Roberts
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a cozy, easy recipe that the whole family will love? This Hobo Casserole combines ground beef, sliced potatoes, tomatoes, and cheese in a warm, comforting bake that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, potlucks, or Sunday meal prep. Whether you’re after easy dinner ideas, budget-friendly meals, or comfort food classics, this dish hits the mark. Great for feeding a crowd or storing for leftovers—it’s simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish.

2. Wash and thinly slice potatoes. Dice onion and mince garlic.

3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.

4. Add diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish.

6. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the potatoes.

7. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.

8. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheese.

9. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden.

11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Slice potatoes thinly and evenly so they cook through properly.

You can swap in ground turkey or plant-based meat for a variation.

Try adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to boost the veggie content.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef potato casserole, easy comfort food, family dinner, simple dinner idea