Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting, family-friendly dish layered with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal I turn to when I want something hearty, easy, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for its simplicity and versatility. It only takes one baking dish, and I can prepare everything in under an hour. The combination of savory beef, soft potatoes, and melted cheese hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s flexible—I can add whatever veggies I have on hand or swap out ingredients to fit different tastes or diets.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Olive oil
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Potatoes, thinly sliced
Shredded cheddar cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Dried Italian seasoning
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Beef broth or water
Milk (optional, for creaminess)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat and prep:
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the beef:
In a skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat. Then I add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. I drain the fat if needed.
Add aromatics:
I stir in chopped onions and garlic, letting them cook until soft and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes.
Assemble the casserole:
I spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish. Then I layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Add cheese and liquid:
I sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over everything, then pour the broth around the edges. For extra creaminess, I drizzle milk over the potatoes.
Bake:
I cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then I remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
I let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving and top it with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to boost nutrition.
Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
Try plant-based swaps for a vegan version using meat and cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through. A splash of broth helps if it looks a little dry.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. I let it cool, then portion and freeze for up to 2 months. I reheat straight from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge first.

FAQs

Can I use raw potatoes?

Yes, but I slice them thin so they cook through evenly. If the slices are too thick, they might stay firm even after baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake. I add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from fridge to oven.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I like cheddar for flavor and meltability, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a mix of cheeses work great too.

Can I add a sauce?

Yes, I sometimes stir a bit of sour cream or cream of mushroom soup into the beef layer for extra creaminess.

What sides go well with this dish?

I usually serve it with a green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Garlic bread is also perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is one of those dependable, cozy meals I can throw together anytime. It’s hearty, cheesy, and endlessly customizable, which makes it a regular favorite in my kitchen. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just need comfort on a plate, this recipe always delivers.