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Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole Recipe
Some meals just feel like home. They remind you of warm kitchens, family dinners, and the comforting flavors of simple, hearty food. That’s exactly what Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes delivers—an easy, budget-friendly dish packed with cheesy, savory goodness.
This one-pan casserole is ideal for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavor. Plus, with minimal prep and easy layering, this casserole is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving good old-fashioned comfort food, this Hobo Casserole is one recipe you’ll want to save!
Ingredients: What You Need for Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Below is a list of everything you need for this delicious, cheesy casserole.
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Main Ingredients
Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Ground beef | 1 lb | Adds a rich, hearty base. |
Potatoes | 4-5 medium, thinly sliced | Provides a tender, starchy layer. |
Cheese & Seasonings
Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Cheddar cheese | 1 ½ cups, shredded | Melts into the casserole for a gooey texture. |
Parmesan cheese | ½ cup, grated | Adds a nutty, salty kick. |
Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Enhances the depth of flavor. |
Paprika | ½ tsp | Brings a subtle smokiness. |
Salt & pepper | To taste | Essential for seasoning. |
Sauce & Liquid Components
Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Helps sauté the beef and onions. |
Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Adds a slightly sweet and savory note. |
Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor. |
Beef broth | ½ cup | Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful. |
Milk (optional) | ¼ cup | Adds a creamy texture (optional). |
Fresh parsley | For garnish | Provides a fresh finish. |
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes (Step-by-Step Guide)
This recipe is simple, quick, and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps to create a cheesy, golden-brown casserole that the whole family will love.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and thinly slice the potatoes (about ¼ inch thick) for even cooking.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns.
- Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Once the beef is fully cooked, remove from heat.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
- In a lightly greased baking dish, layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes.
- Spread half of the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
- Pour beef broth (and optional milk) over the entire dish to keep it moist.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Hobo Casserole
Want to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time? Keep these tips in mind:
✔️ Thinly Slice the Potatoes – Thicker slices may take longer to cook, so aim for ¼-inch thickness.
✔️ Cheese for the Win – Layer some cheese inside the casserole, not just on top, for a super cheesy bite.
✔️ Extra Creaminess – Adding ¼ cup of milk gives the dish a creamier texture.
✔️ Prevent Dryness – Covering the casserole while baking locks in moisture, preventing dry potatoes.
Variations & Customizations
Make this recipe your own by trying these fun twists!
🔥 Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for extra heat.
🌿 Vegetarian Twist – Replace the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
🧀 Ultra-Cheesy Casserole – Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for extra gooey goodness.
🥔 Swap the Potatoes – Try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutritious option.
What to Serve with Hobo Casserole
Pair this hearty casserole with these delicious side dishes:
- Crispy Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Steamed Green Beans – A simple, fresh side that balances the richness.
- Classic Caesar Salad – Adds a crisp, refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This casserole makes great leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
🛑 Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🛑 Freeze: Wrap tightly with foil before baking and freeze for up to 2 months.
🛑 Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✔️ Yes! Assemble it in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready.
❓ What’s the best cheese to use?
✔️ Cheddar is great, but a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan adds extra flavor.
❓ Can I make it without an oven?
✔️ Try cooking it in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours.
❓ Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
✔️ Yes! They add a slightly sweet twist to the dish.
❓ How do I make it gluten-free?
✔️ This dish is naturally gluten-free—just ensure the broth and seasonings contain no additives.
Final Thoughts: Why Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a Must-Try
If you’re looking for a simple, comforting, and flavor-packed meal, this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a must-try. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, the combination of cheesy layers, tender potatoes, and seasoned beef creates a dish that everyone will love.
Give this delicious recipe a try, and let us know in the comments—what’s your favorite way to customize it? 🍽️
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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes – Quick & Delicious!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal! With layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, this one-pan dish is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. A budget-friendly, family favorite that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup milk (optional)
For the Seasoning & Cheese:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat & Prepare:
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- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Thinly slice the potatoes to ¼-inch thickness.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned.
3️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes.
- Spread half of the cooked beef on top.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers, then pour beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection:
- Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Remove foil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden brown.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add more cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
- Thinly slice potatoes for even cooking.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American