Hobo Casserole

Hobo Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, baked beans, and tomatoes, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate comfort food: filling, flavorful, and made with affordable pantry staples. The layers of potatoes, beef, beans, and cheese come together in a single dish for easy assembly and cleanup. It’s a flexible recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings, making it a reliable go-to for a no-fuss dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) baked beans
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
4 large potatoes, sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Arrange the sliced potatoes in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spread the beef and onion mixture over the potatoes.
Pour the baked beans and diced tomatoes evenly over the beef. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a cheese blend.
Sprinkle with smoked paprika or chili powder for added flavor.
Top with fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly as canned potatoes are already cooked.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 1 day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and add more beans or a plant-based ground meat substitute.

What type of baked beans works best?

Any variety will work, but traditional baked beans with a mild sauce are recommended.

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.

Can I add cheese inside the casserole layers?

Yes, sprinkle cheese between the layers for extra cheesiness.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the dish?

Be sure to grease the baking dish well before layering the ingredients.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, chop them finely and add with a little tomato juice or sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

What sides go well with this casserole?

A green salad, cornbread, or steamed vegetables make excellent sides.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole is a simple, budget-friendly meal that delivers hearty comfort and classic flavor. With its easy layering and adaptable ingredients, it’s sure to become a regular feature in your weeknight dinner rotation.

[tasty-recipe id=”15406″]