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A close-up shot of a delicious Hobo Casserole, showcasing its layers of ground beef, vegetables, and crispy potato topping.

Easy Hobo Casserole

Avatar photoAlice Yowell
This Easy Hobo Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and crunchy potato chips or French fried onions for a satisfying and customizable meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Large bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven
  • Can opener
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup crushed potato chips or French fried onions

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  • Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, diced tomatoes (undrained), corn, green beans, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  • Top with the crushed potato chips or French fried onions.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The topping should be golden brown and crispy.
  • Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or stovetop.