Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a delightful and satisfying meal that combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in one dish. Perfect for any occasion, this hearty casserole is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly easy to prepare. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a family favorite, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole
• For Garnish
• How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Add Liquids
• Step 6: Bake Covered
• Step 7: Bake Uncovered
• Step 8: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Add Fresh Ingredients
• Pair with Salad
• Serve with Bread
• How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe?
• Can I customize my Hobo Casserole?
• How do I prevent the potatoes from browning?
• What sides go well with Hobo Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for a busy evening.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients like ground beef and potatoes keeps costs low while feeding the whole family.
• Layered Flavors: The combination of spices, cheese, and savory beef creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses to suit your family’s tastes.
• Easy Cleanup: With everything baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mandoline slicer (optional)
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef evenly without overcrowding.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish provides ample space for layering ingredients.
• Mandoline slicer: Helps achieve even potato slices for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 pound 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 added creaminess)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Break it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet:
1. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
2. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish:
1. Layer thinly sliced potatoes over the beef, slightly overlapping them.
2. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan evenly on top.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges of the dish:
1. This helps keep the potatoes moist while baking.
2. Optionally drizzle milk over the potatoes for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil:
1. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired:
Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Serving Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a delightful experience that brings warmth to the table. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its comforting flavors.

Add Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Pair with Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the cheesy layers beautifully.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up those cheesy bites.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be served warm alongside for a comforting touch.

How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

To ensure your Hobo Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Browning Technique: Fully brown the ground beef before layering it in the casserole. This step enhances the flavor and prevents excess grease.
• Bold Potato Preparation: Slice potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate for a tender texture.
• Bold Cheese Choices: Use a combination of cheeses, such as gouda or mozzarella, alongside cheddar for an extra cheesy delight.
• Bold Broth Usage: Incorporate flavorful beef broth instead of water for richer taste throughout the dish.
• Bold Baking Tips: Keep the dish covered during the first part of baking to retain moisture, then uncover it to achieve that golden cheese crust.
• Bold Storage Solutions: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating them in the oven for best results.

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Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

When serving Hobo Casserole, consider these side dishes that balance its hearty flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light, nutritious option that complements the richness of the casserole.
2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a nice contrast and are easy to prepare alongside the casserole.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and freshness that pairs well with the creamy casserole.
4. Macaroni Salad: This classic side brings a satisfying texture without overwhelming flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide an extra protein punch while keeping with the rustic theme of hobo casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking ground beef too long can lead to dryness. Aim for a nice brown color without overcooking.
• Uneven Potato Slices: Thick potato slices cook unevenly. Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly thin and even pieces.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning layers can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance taste.
• Not Covering While Baking: Skipping the foil cover can dry out the casserole. Cover initially to keep moisture in, then uncover for browning.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients can increase cooking time. Allow all ingredients to come to room temperature before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 5-7 minutes).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe?

A Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe combines layers of seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and cheese baked together for a hearty meal.

Can I customize my Hobo Casserole?

You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers or use different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I prevent the potatoes from browning?

To avoid browning, layer them quickly after slicing and ensure they are well-seasoned.

What sides go well with Hobo Casserole?

Serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have at home. Try adding your favorite veggies or swapping cheeses. It’s a dish that will surely please everyone at the table!

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