Introduction
Hobo Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with crispy hash browns, savory meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or campfire-style meals. The name “hobo” reflects its rustic, all-in-one style using easy, accessible ingredients.
Why You’ll Love It
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- One-dish meal
- Crowd-pleasing comfort food
- Easy to customize
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 1 bag (30 oz / 850 g) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Bell peppers
- Cooked bacon bits
- Jalapeños
- Garlic powder
- Mixed vegetables
Tips for Success
✔ Thaw hash browns so casserole cooks evenly
✔ Brown meat fully for best flavor
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt
✔ Let casserole rest 5–10 minutes before serving
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat to 375°F / 190°C.
2. Cook Meat
In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Mix Filling
In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cooked beef mixture, soup, sour cream, and 1½ cups cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble
Spread mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
5. Top
Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
6. Bake
Bake 35–40 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden.
Flavor & Texture
- Creamy interior
- Cheesy topping
- Hearty meat base
- Tender potatoes
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Protein: 25 g
Serving Suggestions
- With green salad
- With roasted vegetables
- With cornbread or dinner rolls
Conclusion
Hobo Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—warm, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, flexible with ingredients, and guaranteed to keep everyone full and happy.
Healthful Indulgence Tip
Use lean ground beef, light sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version that still delivers creamy comfort.