Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

If you’re searching for a simple yet delicious dinner that’s guaranteed to satisfy your hunger, look no further than Hobo Casserole Ground Beef. This cozy, one-pan casserole combines savory ground beef with thinly sliced potatoes, melty cheese, and aromatic herbs, creating a meal that’s both hearty and comforting. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or for feeding a crowd, and it requires minimal prep and ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—layered ingredients that bake together into a flavorful casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

The casserole features ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, topped with tender potatoes and two kinds of cheese—cheddar and Parmesan. The combination of these ingredients, along with a dash of Italian seasoning and paprika, results in a dish full of rich flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this hobo casserole is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy and Quick to Make

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef comes together in a breeze with simple ingredients and easy steps. The oven does most of the work, allowing you to relax while it bakes.

2. One-Pan Meal

This recipe is made in a single baking dish, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a perfect meal for those who want something simple without dealing with too many pots and pans.

3. Hearty and Satisfying

The combination of ground beef and potatoes creates a filling meal that will leave everyone satisfied. It’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the next day.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the flavors in this dish based on your preferences. Add extra spices, switch up the cheese, or throw in some extra veggies. The recipe is versatile and can be tailored to fit your tastes.

5. Family-Friendly

This casserole is packed with flavors and textures that both kids and adults will love. The melted cheese, tender potatoes, and savory beef come together to create a comforting dish everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Olive oil
• Medium onion, chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Beef broth or water
• Milk (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Cheese: Feel free to swap the cheddar and Parmesan with other cheese varieties like mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor.
• Veggies: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole for extra color and nutrients.
• Spices: Experiment with adding extra spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
• Ground Meat: This recipe can also be made with turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat from the beef.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 4: Layer the Potatoes

Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Then, layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the beef. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Liquids

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef and potatoes. Pour the beef broth or water around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist while baking. Optionally, drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 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.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve the casserole hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Brown the Beef Well: Make sure the ground beef is browned properly for maximum flavor. Drain any excess fat to ensure the casserole isn’t too greasy.
• Slice Potatoes Thinly: To ensure the potatoes cook evenly, slice them as thinly as possible.
• Don’t Skip the Foil: Cover the casserole with foil to keep the potatoes moist while baking. Removing the foil toward the end helps the cheese turn golden and bubbly.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy: If you’re using milk for extra creaminess, opt for whole milk or cream for a richer texture.

How to Serve

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread. If you want to elevate the dish, consider serving it with a tangy dipping sauce like sour cream or ranch dressing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave, or for the best texture, reheat the casserole in the oven. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted for ground beef. Just be sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on the flavor.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time if you bake it from cold.

4. Can I use frozen potatoes?

Frozen potatoes can be used, but fresh potatoes provide the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed before layering them in the casserole.

5. How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be fork-tender and the cheese should be bubbly and golden. If the potatoes are not soft after the first baking time, cover the casserole and bake a bit longer.

6. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I make this recipe in a different size pan?

Yes, you can adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

8. What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, you can use water or chicken broth as a substitute.

9. Can I add extra spices to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add extra spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper to suit your flavor preferences.

10. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes. Keep in mind that sweet potatoes may require a slightly different cooking time.

Conclusion

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines the richness of ground beef with tender potatoes and melty cheese. It’s a perfect dish for busy nights, family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love. Give this easy casserole recipe a try and enjoy the comfort and warmth it brings to your table!

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