When life calls for something simple, satisfying, and deeply comforting, a slow cooker casserole like this one answers with warmth and flavor. Inspired by classic campfire meals, the Hobo Casserole is a nod to practical cooking with humble ingredients that come together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, preparing for a cozy weekend meal, or looking for a dish that reheats beautifully, this recipe offers an easy solution without compromising on taste.
What makes this casserole special is its blend of seasoned ground meat, tender potatoes, creamy mushroom soup, pasta, and a generous amount of cheddar cheese—all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas and keeps everyone coming back for seconds. If you’re a fan of casseroles that combine rich, cheesy textures with rustic, homemade flavor, this one’s for you. No oven is required, just a reliable slow cooker and a few pantry staples. It’s especially ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a hands-off approach to comfort food. And best of all, it’s endlessly customizable based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
1 pound ground beef or ground sausage, browned and drained
2 cups diced potatoes
1 onion, diced
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups chicken or beef broth
1.5 cups uncooked macaroni noodles
1/2 cup sour cream
2.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned, then drain any excess fat.
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker. Add the cooked meat, diced potatoes, diced onion, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on high for 3 hours.
After 3 hours, stir in the broth and uncooked macaroni. Cover again and cook for 30 more minutes.
Once the pasta is nearly cooked, add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Mix everything gently.
Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese. Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavor of this all-in-one meal.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes
This casserole is hearty and rich, offering a good amount of protein from the ground meat and cheese, as well as carbohydrates from the potatoes and pasta. The soup and sour cream contribute creaminess and added flavor but also increase the fat content. While it’s not a light dish, it provides warmth and energy, making it a great choice for cold-weather meals or high-activity days. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and soup, or substitute ground turkey and whole-wheat pasta.
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