Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I really enjoy how this casserole takes basic ingredients and turns them into something special. The potatoes become tender and soak up all the beefy flavor, while the cheese melts into a gooey, golden topping. I like that it’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and doesn’t require any fancy steps—just a little layering and baking. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

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

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup beef broth or water
¼ cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

2. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat, add the ground beef, and cook it until browned and crumbly, about 5–7 minutes. I drain any excess fat.

3. I add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until the onion softens.

4. In the prepared baking dish, I spread the cooked beef mixture evenly on the bottom.

5. I layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

6. I sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

7. I pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges of the dish to help the potatoes cook evenly. If I want extra creaminess, I drizzle in the milk as well.

8. I cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, I remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

9. I garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 50 minutes to bake, and a total of 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. The portions are hearty enough for a full meal, especially when paired with a green salad or some crusty bread.

Variations

I sometimes add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more flavor and texture. For a different cheese flavor, I use mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar. If I want a creamier casserole, I mix a little sour cream into the beef before layering. For a fun twist, I’ve also used ground turkey or sausage in place of beef—it changes the flavor but keeps the dish comforting and filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I like to warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes so the cheese stays melty and the potatoes reheat evenly. The microwave works fine for single servings, but I cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. This casserole can also be frozen—just wrap it tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to bake, I let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

What kind of potatoes work best?

I prefer Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes because they get tender without falling apart and soak up the flavors beautifully.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! I like adding sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even frozen peas for extra color and nutrition.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works great as a leaner option. I just make sure to season it well for extra flavor.

How can I make the casserole creamier?

For extra creaminess, I sometimes mix in a little milk or sour cream with the beef layer, or even add a small amount of cream of mushroom soup before baking.

Conclusion

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a cozy, no-fuss recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect for any night of the week. I love how it combines simple ingredients—potatoes, beef, and cheese—into a rich, bubbling, golden casserole that’s both satisfying and comforting. It’s a timeless family favorite that always hits the spot.

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