Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Introduction

Easy Hobo Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and melted cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole combines simple ingredients for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp 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 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1/4 cup milk
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Add olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Cook for 1 minute, ensuring seasonings are well distributed.
4. Step 4: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Step 5: Spread the entire seasoned ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the first layer of potatoes.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, combine beef broth or water with milk. Pour half of this liquid mixture evenly over the beef layer.
7. Step 7: Arrange the remaining half of the thinly sliced potatoes over the beef. Season this top potato layer lightly with salt and pepper. Pour the remaining beef broth and milk mixture over the top.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire casserole.
9. Step 9: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.
10. Step 10: Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. For an extra golden crust, you may briefly broil for 1-2 minutes while watching closely.
11. Step 11: Let the casserole rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture, or Russet potatoes for a fluffier finish.
• For extra flavor, add a layer of sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Try different cheese blends like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. For best texture, avoid overcooking when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before baking. Keep it covered and refrigerated, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

It is not recommended as fresh thinly sliced potatoes cook more evenly and absorb flavors better. Frozen potatoes may release excess moisture and change the texture of the casserole.

Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 90 reviews

• Author: Hailey
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Easy Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a comforting layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a cheesy topping, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a hearty family dinner, this casserole combines simple ingredients with straightforward steps for a satisfying meal that’s flavorful and filling.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ground Beef Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Potato Layers

• 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Liquid Mixture

• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1/4 cup milk

Cheese Topping

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided: 1 cup + 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Cook Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
3. Season Beef Mixture: Stir in dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef mixture. Cook the mixture for an additional 1 minute, ensuring the seasonings are well incorporated and aromatic.
4. Layer Potatoes: Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lightly season this potato layer with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
5. Add Beef Layer: Spread the entire seasoned ground beef and onion mixture evenly on top of the first potato layer, ensuring an even distribution.
6. Add Liquid: In a small bowl, combine the beef broth (or water) with milk. Pour half of this liquid mixture evenly over the beef layer to help keep the casserole moist during baking.
7. Complete Potato Layers: Arrange the remaining thinly sliced potatoes over the beef layer. Lightly season this top layer with salt and pepper. Then, pour the remaining beef broth and milk mixture evenly over the potato layer.
8. Add Cheese (First Layer): Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire casserole, providing a rich cheesy layer.
9. Initial Bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, allowing potatoes to soften and flavors to meld.
10. Final Bake and Browning: Carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. For an extra golden crust, optionally broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
11. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute beef broth with water if you prefer a lighter version or lower sodium content.
• Use thinly sliced potatoes for even cooking; using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper with the Italian seasoning.
• Resting the casserole before serving helps it hold its shape better when plated.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: hobo casserole, ground beef casserole, easy beef casserole, cheesy potato casserole, layered casserole, comfort food