Hobo casserole ground beef is a nostalgic dish that brings together comforting flavors in a single pan. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole offers a heartwarming meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of recipe that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, often evoking memories of family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. If you’re looking for something easy to prepare without sacrificing taste, this dish is definitely worth trying.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the standout features of hobo casserole is its simplicity. Using just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that doesn’t break the bank. It’s budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families or anyone looking to save on grocery bills. Plus, it’s versatile enough for various occasions—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering.

"This hobo casserole is our go-to on busy weeknights! The kids devour it, and I love how easy it is to put together." — Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

The beauty of hobo casserole lies in its straightforward preparation. In just a few steps, you’ll create a dish that’s not only filling but also packed with flavor. Begin by browning the ground beef, then layer your ingredients, and let the oven work its magic. It’s a recipe designed with convenience in mind, making it easy for both novice and experienced cooks alike to whip up.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious hobo 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)

Consider substituting ground turkey for a leaner option, or use dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking and breaking it apart until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Layer the thinly sliced potatoes over the cooked ground beef in the prepared baking dish. Start by spreading the beef mixture evenly on the bottom, then arrange the potatoes on top, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef. Pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges to keep the potatoes moist while baking, and optionally drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Best Way to Serve

Hobo casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some tasty sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad to balance out the richness or some crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices left on your plate. For an extra touch, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives when serving.

Storage Tips

To enjoy leftovers safely and deliciously, let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it’ll be good for up to 2-3 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven until heated through.

Pro Chef Tips

For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef. This enhances the depth of flavor in your casserole.
Don’t skip the optional milk— it adds a delicious creaminess that creates a delightful contrast with the potatoes.
If you’re in a hurry, try using pre-cut potatoes or frozen diced potatoes to save prep time.

Creative Twists

Feel free to customize your hobo casserole! Try adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also mix in different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Gouda, for unique flavor profiles. For a kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this recipe?

From start to finish, you can expect this hobo casserole to take about 60-70 minutes, including prep time and baking.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator unbaked. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake it as directed. This makes it a convenient meal for busy days!

Hobo Casserole

Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Description

A comforting and budget-friendly hobo casserole made with ground beef, potatoes, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

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)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking and breaking it apart until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Layer the thinly sliced potatoes over the cooked ground beef in the prepared baking dish. Start by spreading the beef mixture evenly on the bottom, then arrange the potatoes on top, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef. Pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges to keep the potatoes moist while baking, and optionally drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef. Don’t skip the optional milk as it adds creaminess. Customize with vegetables or different cheeses.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef