This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful dish that combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese into a comforting meal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe highlights simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, this casserole is an economical choice without sacrificing taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can get this dish ready without complicated techniques.
Family-Friendly: The combination of ground beef and cheesy potatoes appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap out or add your favorite vegetables or cheeses to customize the dish to your liking.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your delicious meal.
Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, allowing you to enjoy it for days after cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Hobo Casserole Ground Beef effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Baking dish (9×13 inches)
Cooking spray or olive oil
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A sturdy skillet is vital for browning the ground beef evenly and developing rich flavors.
Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish allows ample space for layering all ingredients, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and slicing potatoes quick and efficient.

Ingredients

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is delicious with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese all baked together into a comforting dish. It’s a simple, hearty meal that the whole family will love!

For the Casserole

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)

How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
Heat the olive oil.
Add the ground beef and cook it until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet:
Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 4: Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish

In your prepared baking dish:
Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
Layer thinly sliced potatoes on top.
Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broth

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the layered ingredients:
Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep potatoes moist while baking.
If desired, drizzle milk for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil:
Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered

After 30 minutes:
Remove foil from the casserole.
Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Once done:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or at a potluck, these serving suggestions will enhance the meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
Caesar Salad – This classic salad pairs well with the cheesy flavors of the casserole, adding crunch and creaminess.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole, enhancing its savory taste.
Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls are great for soaking up any juices left on your plate.

Serve with a Vegetable Dish

Steamed Broccoli – The bright green color and healthy crunch of steamed broccoli make it an excellent side.
Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots add flavor balance and a pop of color to your meal.

Top with Extras

Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and tang to each bite.
Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a burst of flavor and color when sprinkled on top.

How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Perfecting Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is all about the little details that elevate this comfort dish. Follow these tips for the best results.

Choose Quality Beef – Using lean ground beef ensures your casserole isn’t greasy while still being flavorful.
Slice Potatoes Evenly – Thin, even slices allow for uniform cooking, ensuring all potatoes are tender by the time it’s done baking.
Layer Ingredients Properly – Start with beef at the bottom, followed by potatoes, ensuring even moisture distribution throughout the dish.
Experiment with Cheese – Mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can create unique flavor profiles in your casserole.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings based on personal preference; add more herbs or spices if desired.
Cool Before Serving – Letting the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

To complement your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, consider these tasty side dishes that round out your meal perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make for an indulgent pairing with your casserole.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that balances the richness of the casserole.
Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer both texture and flavor.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is easy to prepare and adds a delightful sweetness that complements savory dishes.
Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans add depth and sweetness, making them an ideal match for ground beef casseroles.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a bland taste. Make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned and flavorful.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer can result in an unseasoned casserole. Always season the meat, potatoes, and cheese layers for balanced flavor.
Using thick potato slices: Thick potato slices may not cook through in time. Slice them thinly to ensure they become tender during baking.
Not covering while baking: Leaving the casserole uncovered can dry out the potatoes. Cover it with foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture.
Overloading with cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can make the dish greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts for a perfect melt without excess oil.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Hobo Casserole Ground Beef in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this Hobo Casserole Ground Beef vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives, and add more vegetables!

What side dishes go well with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare Hobo Casserole Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or cheeses based on what you have at home. This hearty dish is perfect for feeding families and making weeknight dinners easier. Give it a try, and enjoy all its deliciousness!

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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

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Author: Ana
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. This one-pot wonder is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious meal that satisfies everyone at the table. With its straightforward preparation and familiar ingredients, this casserole is an economical choice for busy weeknights. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as leftovers, Hobo Casserole Ground Beef promises flavor and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add onions and garlic to the skillet; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
Layer the beef mixture in the baking dish followed by sliced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Pour beef broth around edges; drizzle milk if desired.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American