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A bubbling hobo casserole, topped with golden-brown melted cheese, is served in a white baking dish on a rustic wooden surface.
Reda

Classic Hearty Hobo Casserole

A satisfying, budget-friendly meal layered with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, savory baked beans, and melted cheese. This hobo casserole is pure comfort food, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Potato Layer
  • 2 lbs Russet potatoes peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper freshly ground
For the Beef Layer
  • 1.5 lbs Lean ground beef 85/15 recommended
  • 1 large Yellow onion chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper
For the Topping & Final Layer
  • 1 can (28 oz) Pork and Beans in tomato sauce undrained
  • 2 cups Shredded sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded is best

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Prepare Components
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced potatoes with the melted butter, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper until evenly coated. Set aside.
  3. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 8-10 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Season the beef: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes for the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
Assemble and Bake the Casserole
  1. Create the first layer by arranging the seasoned potato slices in an even, overlapping layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Spread the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
  3. Pour the entire can of undrained pork and beans over the beef layer and spread evenly.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This allows the potatoes to steam and become tender.
  5. Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  6. Let the hobo casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up and makes it easier to slice.

Notes

Pro Tip: For perfectly uniform potato slices, use a mandoline slicer. Be sure to use the safety guard.
Variations: Feel free to add a can of drained corn or green beans between the beef and bean layers. You can also swap cheddar for a Monterey Jack or a Colby blend.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.