Looking for an easy weeknight dinner that’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and packed with flavor? This Hobo Casserole is the perfect all-in-one meal. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, crisp veggies, golden tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese. Best of all, it’s ultra-simple to throw together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy with minimal prep
High-protein meal with affordable ingredients
Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat

Ingredients Breakdown

Base Layer:

Ground Beef (1 pound):
Provides a savory, protein-packed foundation for the casserole.
Onion (1, chopped):
Adds flavor and aroma to the beef as it browns.

Creamy Filling:

Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can):
Creates a rich and creamy binder that holds the filling together.
Corn (1 can, drained):
Adds sweetness and texture to the mix.
Green Beans (1 can, drained):
Brings in earthy, tender vegetables that balance the casserole.

Toppings:

Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup):
Melts over the tater tots for a golden, cheesy finish.
Tater Tots (1 package):
Crispy on top, soft underneath—these make the perfect topping for a comforting casserole.

Seasoning:

Salt and Pepper (to taste):
Basic seasoning to enhance the overall flavor.

Tips and Tricks

Use lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease.
For added flavor, mix in a dash of garlic powder or paprika.
Want extra crunch? Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to crisp up the tater tots even more.
Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations and Customizations

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner version.
Veggie Upgrade: Add frozen peas, carrots, or chopped bell peppers.
Soup Alternative: Swap mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup.
Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole with:

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer:

Assemble casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Bake from frozen, adding 15–20 extra minutes to the cook time.

Hobo Casserole

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Hobo Tater Tot Casserole – Savory ground beef, veggies, and creamy mushroom sauce smothered in cheese & crispy tots! A hearty, budget-friendly one-pan wonder that’s pure comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
1 (14.5 oz) can green beans, drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 (28 oz) bag frozen tater tots
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef and Onion

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned and fully cooked.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Drain off any excess grease.

2. Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:
- Cooked beef and onions
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Drained corn
- Drained green beans
Stir until well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef and veggie mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread into an even layer.
Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.

5. Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve Hot

Let cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm. Pair it with a simple side salad or fresh bread.

Notes

This Hobo Tater Tot Casserole is the kind of meal you’ll turn to again and again. It’s hearty, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals on a budget, or just craving an old-school comfort food fix, this casserole checks all the boxes.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American