Description
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting baked dish layered with seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and melted cheese. Easy to make in one pan and endlessly customizable, this crowd-pleasing casserole is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3–4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook ground beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Layer the casserole: Spread the beef mixture in the baking dish. Layer thinly sliced potatoes on top. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Add cheese and liquid: Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top. Pour beef broth around the edges and drizzle milk over the potatoes if using.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and serve: Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with turkey or plant-based crumbles for dietary preferences.
- Add veggies like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for variety.
- Use sour cream or cream of mushroom for a saucier base.
- Slice potatoes thinly to ensure even cooking.
