a comforting homemade hobo casserole presented in a classic white ceramic baking dish with charming red trim

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe (Hobo Casserole)

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This delicious hamburger potato casserole, sometimes called hobo casserole combines lean ground beef, russet potatoes, and a creamy sauce made with cream of mushroom soup. 

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It’s a comforting dish that brings together pantry staples for a hearty meal the whole family will enjoy.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy casserole recipe can be prepared in a baking dish and stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Next time you’re looking for a satisfying dinner, consider this flavorful casserole topped with melty cheese and crispy onions.

Layering the Flavors

This hearty hamburger potato casserole is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The foundation is built with russet potatoes, sliced into smaller pieces, which provide a comforting base.

Ground beef, seasoned with garlic powder and mixed with diced bell pepper, adds a savory depth to the dish. The creamy sauce, made from cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and milk, ties everything together, creating a rich and satisfying experience.

As you layer these ingredients in a baking dish, the anticipation builds for the golden brown perfection that awaits after baking. Each layer contributes to the overall flavor profile, ensuring a delicious bite every time.

The Perfect Baking Technique

To achieve the ideal texture, preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) is essential. Using a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked.

Draining excess fat is a crucial cooking step that enhances the dish’s overall flavor. Once the beef is ready, mixing in the bell pepper and seasonings adds a fresh element that complements the richness of the creamy sauce.

When layering in the casserole dish, be sure to cover with aluminum foil for the first half of the bake time. This helps steam the potatoes, ensuring they become tender while the flavors meld beautifully.

Cheesy Toppings and Crunchy Finish

One of the highlights of this casserole is the melty cheese that tops it off. Using a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a deliciously gooey layer that pulls apart beautifully when served.

For an added crunch, crispy onions sprinkled on top just before the final bake time provide a delightful contrast to the creamy layers beneath.

Feel free to add tater tots for an extra layer of texture and flavor, making this dish even more appealing to family and friends.

Serving Suggestions

This hamburger potato casserole is perfect for family dinners, especially when paired with a side of green beans. The bright color and crisp texture of the beans complement the hearty casserole, making for a well-rounded meal.

Serving it in a rustic baking dish enhances the homey feel, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Simply reheat for a satisfying meal the next day.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Preparing this casserole in advance is a great way to save time. You can assemble the entire dish and store it in a freezer-safe container.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and bake according to the recipe instructions. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to have a hearty meal ready at a moment’s notice.

For those who enjoy experimenting, consider swapping out russet potatoes for Yukon golds or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole

This hamburger potato casserole features layers of Yukon gold potatoes, ground beef, and bell pepper, all baked to golden brown perfection. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people, making it an ideal comfort food option for the dinner table.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into smaller pieces
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup tater tots (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crispy onions (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in the diced bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and milk. Mix well to create a creamy sauce.
  4. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish. Pour half of the creamy sauce over the potatoes, followed by half of the cooked ground beef mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
  5. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and add tater tots if desired. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender.
  6. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with crispy onions for added crunch.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Fat: 25g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g

Why This Casserole Stands Out

This delicious hamburger potato casserole recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings together pantry staples in a delightful way.

The combination of flavors, textures, and the ease of preparation make it a go-to for many home cooks.

Next time you’re looking for a satisfying dinner option, remember this hearty meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Jeff Campbell
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