Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Potato (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Main

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
08 - 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
09 - 1/2 cup whole milk
10 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

→ Topping

11 - 1 tablespoon butter, melted
12 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
02 - Peel and slice potatoes into thin, even rounds for uniform cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for efficiency, if available.
03 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until beef is fully browned and onions are softened, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
04 - Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly combine seasonings throughout the beef mixture.
05 - Arrange half of the sliced potatoes as an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture. Repeat with remaining potatoes and beef for a second layer.
06 - In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup with milk. Whisk until smooth, then pour mixture evenly over layered potatoes and beef.
07 - Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Drizzle melted butter over the cheese to promote browning.
08 - Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
09 - Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier serving. Sprinkle with paprika for color, if desired.
10 - Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy immediately for optimum creaminess and flavor.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Ensure potatoes are sliced evenly for consistent texture and even cooking.
02 - Generously grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to facilitate easy release and cleanup.
03 - Seasoning can be adjusted to personal taste; additional herbs or spices such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning may be used.
04 - Cream of chicken or celery soup can be substituted for the mushroom soup if desired.
05 - Cheddar cheese may be combined with Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for a nuanced flavor profile.
06 - For extra creaminess, incorporate 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the soup mixture before pouring over the casserole.
07 - Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps the layers set for effortless serving.