Name: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well); 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces (fresh or frozen); 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (do not drain); 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Why You’ll Love Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

When it comes to simple dinners, Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef checks every box. Not only is it easy to assemble with minimal prep, but it’s also incredibly budget-friendly.

This casserole stretches a pound of ground beef into a meal that feeds the whole family, thanks to a hearty mix of potatoes and green beans. The flavors are rich and savory, with a touch of comforting nostalgia in every bite—a perfect all-in-one dish for nights when you want maximum taste with minimum fuss. Another great thing about this casserole is its flexibility; you can customize it with whatever veggies, cheese, or seasonings you have on hand. Plus, since it’s baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze—leaving you more time to relax and enjoy dinner.

Ingredients for Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

For this classic Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this recipe to life:

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well)
2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces (fresh or frozen)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (do not drain)
1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but highly recommended for a melty finish)

With these simple ingredients, you’ll create a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Necessary Tools

Preparing Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a few basics from your kitchen:

Large skillet or sauté pan (for browning the ground beef and aromatics)
Chef’s knife and cutting board (for prepping veggies)
9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish
Mixing spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil (for covering the casserole while baking)
Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheddar)
Colander (for rinsing green beans, if using fresh)

Having these essential kitchen tools ready will help your casserole-making process go smoothly from start to finish.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

One of the best things about Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is its versatility. Feel free to make it your own by adding or swapping ingredients to suit your family’s taste or dietary needs:

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.
Use frozen green beans or substitute with fresh broccoli or peas.
Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Use canned fire-roasted tomatoes for a smokier taste.
Top with your favorite cheese blend (like mozzarella or Monterey Jack) instead of cheddar.
For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based ground “beef” and vegetable broth.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—this casserole is very forgiving!

How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Making Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is as easy as brown, layer, and bake! You’ll start by cooking the ground beef and aromatics, then load everything into a casserole dish and let your oven do the work. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Begin by washing and dicing your potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. Trim your green beans and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic—these aromatics will give your casserole tons of savory flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Cook until it just begins to brown, breaking it up with a spatula. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, continuing to cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat from the pan to keep your casserole from getting greasy.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the diced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Next, layer on the green beans, then pour the browned ground beef mixture over the top. Spoon the can of diced tomatoes (including liquid) evenly over everything.

Step 4: Combine the Sauce

In a mixing bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole layers. This sauce will infuse the vegetables with rich, savory flavor as the casserole bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Removing the foil during the last 10 minutes helps everything meld together and allows the casserole to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

If you’re using cheese (and why wouldn’t you?), sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top of the casserole during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let your casserole rest for a few minutes to set before serving. This makes it easier to scoop and enjoy all those delicious, hearty layers!

Serving Suggestions

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is filling enough to stand alone, but you can round out your meal with a few simple sides for extra comfort. Serve it hot alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-balanced dinner. A slice of warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits is perfect for soaking up the savory juices left in the casserole dish. For a homestyle touch, offer a little extra shredded cheese and chopped fresh herbs on the table so everyone can customize their plate.

Pro Tips & Tricks

While Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is virtually foolproof, here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results every time:

Cut your potatoes small and uniform to ensure even cooking—bite-sized pieces are best.
If you prefer a crunchier topping, sprinkle some crushed crackers or French fried onions over the cheese before baking.
Using lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15) helps prevent excess grease in your casserole.
Taste and adjust the seasoning of the broth mixture before pouring it over the casserole.
Don’t skip the cheese! Even if you’re not a cheese lover, a small sprinkle adds richness and helps brown the top beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? No problem! Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef stores incredibly well, making it a great option for meal prepping:

Cool leftovers completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers. It keeps up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or pop the whole dish back in the oven, covered, at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if the casserole seems dry.

General Information

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is rooted in simple, homespun cooking—sometimes referred to as “hobo dinners” or “hobo stew”—which emerged from a need to create easy, filling meals from affordable ingredients. While the name may sound quirky, the heart of the dish is all about making something delicious out of what you already have in your pantry or fridge. Perfect for busy families, hungry kids, or anyone looking for a taste of classic Americana, this casserole remains a popular dinner idea for good reason: it’s nourishing, comforting, and brings everyone together around the table.

FAQs

Can I make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen green beans (or even a mixed veggie blend) work great and save time on prep. There’s no need to thaw them—simply toss them in as you would fresh.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon gold and russet potatoes both work well in this recipe. Yukon golds hold their shape and have a creamy texture, while russets get fluffier and are a bit starchier.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Skip the cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative—everything else in the casserole is naturally dairy-free.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is naturally gluten-free when made as directed. Just be sure to check the labels on your broth and Worcestershire sauce.

Is it possible to double the recipe?

Certainly! Use two baking dishes or a larger casserole pan to ensure even cooking—this is a great option for potlucks or feeding a crowd.

Can I cook this entire dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and aromatics on the stovetop, then layer everything in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the potatoes are tender; add the cheese during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

There’s a reason Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef has stood the test of time—it’s easy, affordable, and brimming with comforting flavors. Whether you’re feeding a large family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, this casserole delivers every time. It’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that warms the heart and fills the belly. Don’t forget to make extra—you’re bound to want leftovers for lunch the next day!

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutritional breakdown of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef? Per serving (based on 6 servings, with cheese), you’re looking at approximately:

Calories: 370
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 690mg

Keep in mind, these values may vary based on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes. For a lighter version, opt for leaner ground meat and reduced-fat cheese, or add more veggies to bulk up the dish with extra nutrients. However you serve it, this casserole is a balanced, complete meal in every forkful!