Hobo Casserole with ground beef, vegetables, and cheese baked to perfection.

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

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Why Make This Recipe

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any meal. It is perfect for families, gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. This casserole combines simple ingredients, making it easy to prepare without much hassle. You can enjoy the delightful blend of flavors as ground beef, cheese, and potatoes come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Plus, it is a one-pan dish that makes for an easy clean-up!

This recipe is versatile as well, allowing you to mix and match various ingredients depending on what you have at home. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or cheese, making it an efficient choice for meal planning. Hobo Casserole is not just nutritious; it’s also truly comforting, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and delicious.

How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. Below are the clear steps to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients

  • 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 creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly for about 5-7 minutes. If there is excess fat, you can drain it off.

  3. Add Onions and Garlic: After the beef is cooked through, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

  4. Layer the Potatoes: Now, take your baking dish and spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly at the bottom. On top, layer the thinly sliced potatoes. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika for added flavor.

  5. Add Cheese and Liquids: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef and potatoes. Pour in the beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist during baking. If you want extra creaminess, drizzle with milk.

  6. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

  7. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, you can garnish the casserole with fresh parsley if desired. Serve it hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Serving Hobo Casserole is simple. Cut the casserole into squares or portions and serve it directly from the baking dish. You can accompany it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. The casserole is filling on its own but pairing it with green vegetables can add some freshness to the dining experience.

Feel free to adjust portion sizes based on your guests’ appetite. This dish is ideal for family-style dining, allowing everyone to help themselves to seconds if they wish.

How to Store Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

If you have leftovers (which can often happen with this hearty dish), storing it properly is easy. Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.

You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to save it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Hobo Casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option.

Tips to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

  1. Variety of Vegetables: Feel free to add in other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or green beans to enhance nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them finely or slice them thin so they cook evenly.

  2. Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a delightful twist to the dish.

  3. Spice It Up: If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef while cooking.

  4. Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, adding cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup can give the casserole a rich flavor.

  5. Fresh Herbs: Consider using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of dried ones. They can significantly enhance the aroma and taste of the casserole.

Variation

While Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a classic dish, there are many variations to try. Some people like to use turkey or chicken instead of beef, making it a lighter option. Others might prefer a vegetarian version by using lentils or black beans in place of the meat. You can also switch up the potatoes by using sweet potatoes for a slightly different taste and added nutrients.

Another popular variation involves adding a layer of corn or mixed vegetables for added sweetness and flavor. Feel free to get creative based on what you enjoy!

FAQs

  1. Can I prepare Hobo Casserole in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble it as directed, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be going into the oven cold.

  2. How can I tell if the potatoes are done?
    The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. If you find that the potatoes are still hard after the recommended baking time, you can cover the casserole with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

  3. Can I make Hobo Casserole gluten-free?
    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as all the ingredients listed (excluding optional ingredients like milk) do not contain gluten. Just be sure to double-check any packaged items you use such as broths or seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free.

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful dish that is both comforting and satisfying. With its easy preparation, problem-solving nature, and rich flavor, it is bound to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a wonderful meal with family and friends!

Print
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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

  • Author: mohamed175
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
Print Recipe

Description

A comforting one-pan dish featuring ground beef, cheese, and potatoes, perfect for families and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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 creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the ground beef for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  4. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the baking dish, then layer the sliced potatoes on top. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  5. Sprinkle the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top, and pour beef broth or water around the edges. Drizzle with milk if desired.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
  7. Garnish with parsley, serve hot, and enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheese types for variety.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, comfort food, family meal, one-pan dish

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