Looking for a comforting and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion? This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is just what you need. It’s delicious, hearty, and simple to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this casserole ready to bake in no time.

Perfect for meal prep: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Casserole:

Ground beef: Adds protein and flavor to the dish.

Medium potatoes, thinly sliced: Provide a hearty base for the casserole.

Olive oil: Used for cooking the onions and garlic.
Medium onion, chopped: Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.

Garlic, minced: Enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

½ cup beef broth: Adds moisture and richness to the dish.
¼ cup milk (optional): Helps create a creamier texture.

For the Seasoning & Cheese:

Italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper: Seasonings that add depth of flavor to the dish.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a gooey, cheesy topping.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, nutty flavor.

Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of freshness to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
Add the beef broth and milk to the skillet, then bring to a simmer.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

Top with half of the ground beef mixture and half of the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef mixture, and cheeses.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips:

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor.

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

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Make sure to evenly layer the potatoes and beef mixture to ensure even cooking.

Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together.

For a crispy top, broil the casserole for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

This Hobo Casserole pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Serve with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a complete meal.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and use additional vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach as a meat-free alternative.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Conclusion:

Give this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes a try for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy the hearty flavors of this comforting dish!