Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes – Quick & Delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: Combines savory beef, creamy potatoes, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal.

• Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.

• Budget-Friendly: Utilizes affordable pantry staples without compromising on taste.

• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup beef broth

• ¼ cup milk (optional)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to ¼-inch thickness.

2. Cook the Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
   Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned.

3. Assemble the Casserole:
   Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes.
   Spread half of the cooked beef on top.
   Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese.
   Repeat the layers, then pour beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top.

4. Bake to Perfection:
   Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
   Remove foil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden brown.

5. Serve & Enjoy:
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 50 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.

• Cheese Blend: Use a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

• Different Potatoes: Try sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

• Freezing: Freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

FAQs

How thin should I slice the potatoes?

Aim for ¼-inch thickness to ensure even cooking and tender layers.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite melting cheese like mozzarella or Colby Jack.

Is it necessary to use both cheddar and Parmesan cheese?

Using both adds depth of flavor, but you can use just one type if preferred.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the casserole.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Ensure it's covered with foil during the initial baking to retain moisture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, ensure that the beef broth and any added ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How long should I let the casserole rest before serving?

Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to set and make slicing easier.

Conclusion

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a delicious, comforting meal that's easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. With its hearty layers and rich flavors, it's a perfect dish for any occasion. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a satisfying homemade dinner.

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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes – Quick & Delicious!

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This Hobo Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy nights and budget-friendly meals, it's a family favorite packed with flavor and minimal effort.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup beef broth

¼ cup milk (optional)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp paprika

Salt & pepper, to taste

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to ¼-inch thickness.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned.
4. Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes, followed by half of the cooked beef and half of the cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat the layers, then pour beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
7. Remove foil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden brown.
8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Try using different cheese blends or potatoes for variation.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg