Creating the Hobo Casserole is straightforward with these easy-to-follow steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

2. Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

3. Add Onions: Once the beef is browned, add chopped onions and cook until they are translucent.

4. Season the Beef: Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.

5. Mix in Vegetables and Soup: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the drained mixed vegetables and cream of mushroom soup. Stir until well combined.

6. Layer with Potatoes: Grease a baking dish, and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the potatoes. Repeat this layering process with the remaining potatoes and beef mixture.

7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of the casserole.

8. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes.

9. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

These straightforward instructions lead to a delectable hobo casserole that will have your family smiling at the dinner table!