Why Make This Recipe
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a simple, hearty meal. This dish is quick to prepare and requires minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s both filling and delicious. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized with whatever ingredients you have on hand!
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
Ingredients:
- Ground beef – 1 lb
- Potatoes – 4-5 medium, thinly sliced
- Cheddar cheese – 1 1/2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
- Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
- Paprika – 1/2 tsp
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Beef broth – 1/2 cup
- Milk (optional) – 1/4 cup
- Fresh parsley – for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/4 inch, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until they smell good. Then add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Season it with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Spread half of the cooked beef over the potatoes and sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes and beef, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Pour the beef broth (and milk if using) over the dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until it’s golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.
How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
Hobo Casserole is best served warm straight from the oven. You can plate it up in individual servings, or let everyone help themselves directly from the baking dish. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to complement the meal.
How to Store Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
To store leftovers, make sure the casserole has cooled completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving!
Tips to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
- For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or green beans to the beef mixture.
- Make sure the potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform cooking.
- If you like a bit of spice, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Feel free to substitute the cheeses with your favorites. Mozzarella, for example, could give it a nice stretch!
Variation
You can customize this casserole by using different proteins, such as ground turkey or chicken. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of vegetables.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can mix and match any cheeses you enjoy, like mozzarella or Swiss, for a different flavor.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! To make it in a slow cooker, layer the ingredients as you would in the baking dish and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
