Description
The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make casserole that combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory tomato soup. This one-dish meal offers balanced nutrition and rich flavors, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With simple pantry staples and fresh produce, it requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for weeknight cooking or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Vegetables
- 1 cup green beans, rinsed and chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (10.75 oz) tomato soup
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, sharp cheddar or cheese blend recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse and chop the green beans and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion finely and set all vegetables aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then add diced onions and continue cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients in a Casserole Dish: In a casserole dish, mix the cooked ground beef and onions with the chopped green beans, potatoes, and tomato soup. Stir gently to evenly combine all flavors.
- Season and Layer: Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top to create a golden crust when baked.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese topping is nicely browned.
Notes
- Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain the fat to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Even Potato Slices: Slice potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to help it set and slice cleanly.
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate for quicker cooking on busy days.
- Cheese Choice: Use sharp cheddar or a melty cheese blend for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg