Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

A delicious and hearty meal, Hobo Casserole Ground Beef features layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table. Its simple preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, ensuring a satisfying meal with minimal effort.

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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
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
• Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 4: Bake
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Serve with Bread
• Add a Side of Vegetables
• How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
• Can I customize my Hobo Casserole?
• How long does it take to bake Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• What sides pair well with Hobo Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This casserole can be assembled in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of ground beef and creamy cheeses creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or enjoying again later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this scrumptious hobo casserole with ground beef, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mandoline slicer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet is essential for browning the ground beef evenly and sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish provides ample space to layer all ingredients while allowing for even cooking.
• Mandoline slicer: This tool helps achieve uniform potato slices, ensuring they cook evenly throughout the casserole.

Ingredients

To make this satisfying Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 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 extra creaminess)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish:
1. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
2. Layer thinly sliced potatoes on top.
3. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
5. Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep moisture in. Optionally drizzle with milk for added creaminess.

Step 4: Bake

Cover your casserole with aluminum foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your delightful Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a filling dish that can be served in various ways to please your family or guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast to the hearty casserole.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for scooping up the casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for mopping up any delicious juices left on the plate.

Add a Side of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts are a tasty addition that pairs well with the flavors of hobo casserole.

How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

To make your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs or double the seasoning for an enhanced flavor profile.
• Even Slicing: Cut potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly; this ensures all slices are tender by the end.
• Layer Wisely: Start with beef at the bottom and finish with cheese on top to create a beautiful golden crust.
• Moisture Control: Be mindful of how much broth you add—too much can make it soggy while too little can dry it out.
• Add Variety: Feel free to mix in vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition and texture.
• Rest Before Serving: Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking; this helps set the layers and makes serving easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

The right side dishes can enhance your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing texture that balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory flavors beautifully; grill or steam for best results.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent pairing; try adding garlic or cheese for extra flavor.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer a delightful contrast to the hearty casserole.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a sweet finish, making it a refreshing option after a rich meal.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: This cool salad brings freshness and lightness, ideal alongside hearty casseroles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always cook until browned and drain excess fat.
• Uneven potato slices: Slicing potatoes unevenly can cause some to be undercooked while others are mushy. Use a mandoline slicer for consistent thickness.
• Over or under-seasoning: Forgetting to season layers can make your casserole bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper.
• Not covering while baking: Failing to cover the dish for part of the cooking time may dry out the potatoes. Cover with foil initially, then uncover for the last part of baking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well or have good flavor. Choose high-quality cheddar and Parmesan for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a hearty dish made with ground beef, sliced potatoes, cheese, and seasonings. It’s an easy one-dish meal perfect for families.

Can I customize my Hobo Casserole?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or use different types of cheese based on your preference.

How long does it take to bake Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

The total bake time is about 45-50 minutes—30 minutes covered and an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate before baking. Just increase cooking time slightly if baking from cold.

What sides pair well with Hobo Casserole?

This casserole is great on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness.

Final Thoughts

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is not just filling; it’s also versatile! Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. This dish makes weeknight dinners easy, satisfying, and enjoyable. Give it a try!