Description
This Crockpot Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal combining ground beef, tender potatoes, mixed vegetables, and creamy soups slow-cooked to perfection. It’s perfect for an easy family dinner with minimal prep and maximum flavor, topped with melted cheddar cheese for an optional cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 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.)
Liquids and Sauces
- 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
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
- 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
- You can peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving the peel adds nutrients and texture.
- If you want a creamier casserole, add a little more milk.
- Feel free to substitute the frozen mixed vegetables with fresh veggies or your favorites like green beans or mushrooms.
- This recipe can be doubled for a larger crowd using a bigger slow cooker.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
