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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Potatoes

This classic ground beef casserole is a hearty, comforting dish layered with savory beef, tender pasta, vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weekly meal prep — it’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and fully customizable.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80% lean)

1 small yellow onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, diced

1 cup frozen corn

2 cups cooked elbow macaroni

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

  • Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened.

  • Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

  • Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in corn.

  • In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half the shredded cheese.

  • Transfer mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

  • Top with remaining cheese.

  • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can swap the pasta for cooked rice or diced potatoes.

  • Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition.

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

  • Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

  • This recipe freezes well. Assemble ahead, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.