Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole is one of those comforting dishes that evoke warmth and nostalgia, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. As a hearty melange of ground beef, potatoes, and cheesy goodness, this casserole provides a satisfying meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. The combination of flavors melds beautifully during baking, bringing out the rich tastes of the beef and the subtle earthiness of the potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a filling dish to feed a crowd, this casserole is sure to delight everyone at the table.

What makes Hobo Casserole extra special is its versatility. It’s a one-dish meal that can cater to various preferences and dietary needs. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or experiment with different cheeses. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to get the kids involved in cooking, making it a delightful family activity. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a dish that promises warmth, flavor, and 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)

These are the fresh ingredients you’ll need to assemble your 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. Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the ground beef. Season the potatoes 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: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative. You can also use different types of cheese based on your preferences.
• Optional Variations: Add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, consider including jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
• Storage/Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 55 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty level: Easy