Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Introduction

Hobo Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together layers of hearty ingredients in a single, satisfying dish. With its delectable blend of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, this recipe is both easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Picture this: a warm casserole fresh from the oven, bubbling with flavor and promising to evoke cozy memories. It’s the kind of dish that feeds the soul and becomes a staple in your home.

This beloved recipe shines when shared with loved ones, whether during a chilly evening or at a potluck with friends. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, Hobo Casserole is a winner that will feed the whole family while keeping them coming back for seconds. Readers will adore not only its simplicity but also its nostalgic charm—making it a dish that feels like home cooked straight from the heart.

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Here are the main ingredients ready to create a delicious Hobo Casserole.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
4. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the ground beef in the prepared baking dish. Start by spreading the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Then, arrange the potatoes on top, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef. Pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist while baking. Optionally, drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
6. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot!

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor.
• Optional Variations: Consider adding a layer of cooked beans for extra protein or using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a twist.
• Storage or Reheating Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and bake until warmed through.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty level: Easy