Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

This Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal featuring seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a cheesy topping. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family dinner on a busy weeknight.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Step 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. Step 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. Step 4: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes on top, then season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. 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. Step 6: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a faster cook time, parboil the potato slices for 5 minutes before layering them in the casserole.
• Try adding sliced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for extra veggies.
• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes since the dish will be cold.

What is the best type of potato to use?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best as they hold their shape well and develop a nice texture after baking.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 72 reviews

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal that layers savory browned ground beef with tender sliced potatoes and a rich blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection with Italian seasoning and a touch of paprika, this casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

Cheeses

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings and Liquids

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Ground Beef: 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 necessary.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook together for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, enhancing the flavor.
4. Layer Potatoes: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes over the beef layer, then season the potatoes with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika for a flavorful crust.
5. Add Cheese and Liquids: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan evenly over the potatoes. Pour the beef broth or water around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist while baking. Optionally, drizzle milk over for added creaminess.
6. Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook evenly without drying out.
7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, don’t skip the optional milk drizzle before baking.
• You can substitute sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Be sure to cover the casserole during the first part of baking to steam the potatoes thoroughly.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated covered in the oven.
• Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can give a subtle spicy kick.

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy potato bake, one dish dinner, easy casserole recipe