Why Make This Recipe
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a hearty and delicious dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a one-dish recipe, which means less mess and easier cleanup.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
Ingredients:
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Potatoes – 4-5 medium, thinly sliced
- Cheddar cheese – 1 1/2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
- Paprika – 1/2 tsp
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Beef broth – 1/2 cup
- Milk (optional) – 1/4 cup
- Fresh parsley – for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/4 inch. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, then add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes. Spread half of the cooked beef over the potatoes and sprinkle with half the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes and beef, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Pour beef broth (and milk if using) over the dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
This casserole is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly sliced potatoes.
- For a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the ground beef while cooking.
- Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter version.
Variation
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans to the layers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also switch up the cheese by using mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
2. Can I freeze Hobo Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. To bake from frozen, you may need to increase the cooking time.
3. What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute for beef broth. This will still provide good flavor to the dish.