Imagine coming home after a long day to the scent of a warm, comforting casserole filling the house. Crockpot Hobo Casserole is just that—simple, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. With a few basic ingredients, this dish is a one-pot wonder that combines all the classic flavors of a cozy, homemade meal. Think tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese—all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and it practically makes itself!
Why You’ll Love Crockpot Hobo Casserole
This casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s also ridiculously easy to make. Throw everything into the crockpot, set it, and forget it. You’ll have a delicious, homey meal ready when you’re ready to eat. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
- Hands-Off Cooking: The crockpot does all the work for you. Just prep the ingredients in the morning, and you’ll have a piping hot, filling dinner ready by the evening.
- Budget-Friendly: It uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand. No need for fancy extras—this is comfort food at its finest.
- Comforting and Hearty: With layers of potatoes, ground beef, cheese, and seasonings, this casserole is rich, filling, and absolutely satisfying.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, swap out ingredients, or adjust seasonings to suit your preferences. It’s an easy dish to make your own.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone at the table will love it, from the kids to the adults. It’s the kind of meal that gets requested time and time again.

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Ingredients in Crockpot Hobo Casserole
This casserole is made with just a handful of ingredients, and yet the flavor is so rich. Here’s everything you’ll need:
For the Casserole:
- Ground Beef: The main protein of the dish. It cooks down in the crockpot to become super tender and flavorful.
- Potatoes: Use Russet potatoes for their creamy texture. Slice them thinly so they cook evenly and absorb all the tasty flavors.
- Onion: Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish. You can use yellow or white onions, depending on your preference.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic bring in that classic savory flavor to balance the richness of the beef.
- Shredded Cheese: A melty layer of cheese on top brings everything together. Cheddar is a favorite, but feel free to mix in your favorite cheese!
- Beef Broth: Adds moisture to the casserole and infuses the potatoes and beef with flavor.
- Seasonings: A simple blend of salt, pepper, and dried herbs (like thyme or oregano) will elevate the flavors. You can also throw in some paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, and drain any excess fat once it’s fully browned.
Step 2: Prep the Crockpot
Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or grease it lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Start layering the ingredients in the crockpot:
- Layer 1: Place a layer of thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of browned ground beef, spreading it evenly over the potatoes.
- Layer 3: Sprinkle some chopped onion and garlic over the beef.
- Layer 4: Add a generous layer of shredded cheese.
Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up, making sure to finish with a layer of cheese on top.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour the beef broth over the layers. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like on top, ensuring the broth is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should be tender and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked and bubbly, serve it hot. You’ll have a hearty, filling meal ready to go. Add a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables to round it out.
How to Serve Crockpot Hobo Casserole
This casserole is delicious all on its own, but here are a few ways to take it to the next level:
With a Side Salad:
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will add a fresh contrast to the richness of the casserole.
With Steamed Veggies:
Add some steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots to balance out the meal and add extra nutrients.
With Garlic Bread:
Garlic bread is always a hit! Serve it alongside to mop up any delicious juices from the casserole.
Additional Tips
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or even a meatless option like lentils if you want a vegetarian version.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Fresh potatoes are best, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen hashbrowns or frozen diced potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
Make sure you’re adding enough beef broth to keep everything moist. If it looks a little dry during cooking, you can always add a splash of extra broth or water.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can layer everything in the crockpot the night before, store it in the fridge, and cook it the next day. Just make sure to allow the casserole to come to room temperature before starting the slow cook.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or crockpot.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g (28% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 9g (45% DV)
- Cholesterol: 45mg (15% DV)
- Sodium: 600mg (25% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g (11% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 4g (16% DV)
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 12% DV
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-7 hours (depending on setting)
- Total Time: 3-7 hours 15 minutes
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A1: Yes! Sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness to the dish, and they’ll cook similarly to regular potatoes.
Q2: Can I make this dish in the oven instead of a crockpot?
A2: Yes, you can bake it in a casserole dish at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to an hour. Just cover it with foil to keep the moisture in.
Q3: Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
A3: Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q4: Can I use frozen ground beef?
A4: Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before you brown it, and be sure to drain any excess fat once it’s cooked.
Q5: Can I make this casserole without cheese?
A5: Of course! You can skip the cheese if you prefer, or use a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Q6: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A6: The potatoes should be fork-tender, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. You can also check by inserting a knife into the potatoes to make sure they’re fully cooked.
Q7: Can I add sour cream or cream of mushroom soup?
A7: Yes, adding sour cream or a can of cream of mushroom soup can make the casserole extra creamy and flavorful. Just be mindful of the added richness.
Q8: How can I make this spicier?
A8: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño to the ground beef for some heat.
Q9: How long will leftovers last?
A9: Leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! If you have a large crockpot, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to extend the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Crockpot Hobo Casserole is the kind of meal that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s cozy, filling, and ridiculously easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy days or when you just want to relax and let the crockpot do the work. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of this one-pot wonder!
Print
Crockpot Hobo Casserole
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
This Crockpot Hobo Casserole is a one-pot, comfort food meal made with layers of ground beef, potatoes, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. It’s a simple, throw-together dinner that cooks in your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days. Packed with flavor and super easy to make, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced (peeled or unpeeled)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
-
Brown the ground beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until softened. -
Prepare the casserole mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the browned ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. -
Layer the casserole in the crockpot:
Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray or lightly grease it. Layer half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the crockpot.
Spread half of the beef and soup mixture over the potatoes. Add half of the frozen mixed vegetables on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and vegetables. -
Cook the casserole:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked. -
Add the cheese (optional):
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 20 minutes of cooking and let it melt. -
Serve and enjoy:
Once done, give the casserole a gentle stir and serve hot. It’s great on its own or with a side salad.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add cooked bacon bits or sausage to the ground beef mixture.
- You can swap the frozen mixed vegetables for any fresh or frozen vegetables of your choice (broccoli, green beans, etc.).
- For a slightly healthier version, try using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg