Name: Hobo Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup salted butter; 1 medium white onion, finely diced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sour cream; 4 ounces diced green chiles; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Tabasco or similar); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 pounds ground beef; 3-4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/4 inch thick); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 62 reviews

Getting cozy with a dish that hugs you back? That’s exactly what this Hobo Casserole Recipe delivers. Layered with tender potatoes, hearty ground beef, and bubbling cheddar cheese all brought together by a rich homemade sauce, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food you’ll love to make on a weeknight. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking but packs enough flavor to feel like a special treat every time you dig in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with raw ground beef sits on the right side of a white marbled surface. To its left, there are three large brown potatoes lying close together. Above the potatoes, an open can reveals sliced pickled jalapeños. Near the center, two glass measuring cups hold liquids—one bright yellow and the other white. Below these, a large whole white onion is placed next to a dollop of thick white sour cream in a tiny clear bowl. Around the sour cream, there are three wooden measuring spoons filled with salt and pepper, garlic powder, and flour. Nearby, a small glass cup contains a reddish-orange hot sauce, and a rectangular block of yellow cheese and a stick of butter wrapped in paper are placed at the top left of the frame. Everything rests on a white marbled surface with soft lighting, creating crisp shadows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Hobo Casserole Recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Each element adds a crucial touch—whether it’s the creamy sauce that elevates the whole dish or the potatoes that bring a comforting texture, every item on the list plays its part perfectly.

1/4 cup salted butter: Essential for creating a rich, flavorful base for the sauce and sautéing onions.
1 medium white onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to create that luscious casserole texture.
1 cup chicken broth: Brings savory moisture that balances the creaminess.
1 cup heavy cream: Invites decadence and smoothness into the sauce.
1 cup sour cream: Lends subtle tang and tenderness to the mix.
4 ounces diced green chiles: Provides a gentle kick and a hint of smoky freshness.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses aromatic warmth throughout the layers.
1 teaspoon hot sauce (Tabasco or similar): Adds a spicy punch that brightens the dish.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers subtle heat and flavor balance.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every component’s natural flavor.
2 pounds ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this casserole truly satisfying.
3-4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced: The comforting, tender base layer that soaks up all those savory flavors.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts gorgeously on top, creating a golden, bubbly crust.

How to Make Hobo Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch or similar baking dish—this prevents sticking and sets the stage for even cooking. Simple, but vital for a perfect casserole experience.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until softened and just lightly brown—this will take around 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to form a golden roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and sour cream until silky smooth. Simmer gently for a few minutes, then add green chiles, garlic powder, hot sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring everything into one delicious, velvety sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

While your sauce is coming together, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef. Break it into small pieces as it cooks so every bite is tender. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until there’s no pink left. Drain extra grease—this keeps your casserole rich but not greasy.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Peel and slice your russet potatoes into thin, even rounds. Arrange a layer at the bottom of your greased dish, setting the foundation for layers of flavor. Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the potatoes, then pour the sauce over the top. Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously to top it off. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 50 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden-brown crown on your Hobo Casserole.

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish with a layered casserole. The bottom layer is a soft yellow potato mash with a smooth texture. Above that is a ground meat layer with brown and slightly crumbly texture mixed with small bits of green herbs or vegetables. The top layer is a thick, bright yellow melted cheese covering the whole surface, sprinkled with small green herb pieces. A section is removed, revealing the three clear layers inside. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a woven placemat and part of a white plate visible in the foreground. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of green freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole. If you want to kick up a flavor notch, a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado on top will complement those creamy, hearty layers perfectly.

Side Dishes

Since this Hobo Casserole Recipe is already wonderfully rich, pairing it with a crisp, refreshing side salad offers a brilliant balance. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest will brighten up your plate brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try assembling individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties. You can also experiment with layering other veggies like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added color and crunch. Personalize your serving style to make this beloved dish truly your own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? This Hobo Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the flavors meld in the fridge, the dish often tastes even better the next day—just reheat and enjoy!

Freezing

Want to save time for later? You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after it’s cooked. Wrap it tight with foil and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This makes it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks when you want a hearty dinner with zero hassle.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. For leftover refrigerated portions, a microwave works great—just cover loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring if needed, until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! Russet potatoes are traditional for their starchy texture and tenderness, but Yukon Golds or even red potatoes will work if you prefer a waxier bite. Just adjust the slicing thickness and baking time slightly as needed.

Is ground beef necessary or can I substitute it?

You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative like lentils or plant-based crumbles. The sauce and potatoes are so flavorful that substitutions still result in a delightful casserole.

How spicy is this Hobo Casserole Recipe?

The heat level is mild and approachable thanks to the green chiles and subtle hot sauce. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer milder, just reduce those ingredients slightly.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch (using half the amount) to thicken the sauce. Make sure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well for a safe modification.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, offering a rich, tangy melt. You can also try Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a gooey, flavorful topping.

Final Thoughts

This Hobo Casserole Recipe is truly a kitchen gem—comforting, straightforward, and full of layers that feel like a hug on a plate. Once you try it, it’s easy to see why it becomes a go-to for busy nights or anytime you want that satisfying, home-cooked feeling. So grab those ingredients, dig in, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

Hobo Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need