Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef and Cheddar Potatoes Recipe
This Hobo Casserole with ground beef is a comforting, hearty dish featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, it combines flavorful beef, aromatic spices, and creamy cheese in a satisfying casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook 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 excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, enhancing flavor.
- Layer Potatoes: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes evenly on top, then season with salt, pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and paprika for a balanced flavor profile.
- Add Cheese and Liquids: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the layered potatoes and beef. Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges to keep potatoes moist during baking. Optionally, drizzle milk over for added creaminess.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes to let potatoes cook through and flavors meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown for a perfect finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using thinly sliced potatoes helps them cook evenly and faster.
- Draining excess fat from the ground beef ensures the casserole isn’t greasy.
- Substitute broth with water if you prefer a lighter option.
- Milk is optional but adds extra creaminess to the casserole.
- Covering the casserole during baking traps moisture, preventing potatoes from drying out.
- For a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking uncovered.