Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a simple, hearty dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this casserole will quickly become a weeknight favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hobo Casserole is the perfect dish for those busy nights when you want a warm, comforting meal that the whole family will love. The combination of ground beef and thinly sliced potatoes baked with flavorful seasonings and cheese creates a dish that’s both filling and comforting. With its easy prep and minimal ingredients, this casserole is an affordable and delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

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

For the Casserole:

• 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)

For the Seasoning & Cheese:

• 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

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 the onions and garlic until fragrant.

• Add the ground beef, seasoning with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom, then spread half of the cooked beef mixture on top. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

• Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese. Pour the beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top.

4. Bake to Perfection:

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

• Remove the foil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach between the layers of potatoes and beef.

• Use different cheese: Feel free to swap the cheddar for another cheese like mozzarella or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for a little heat.

• Use ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but russet potatoes are preferred for their starchy texture, which helps create a tender casserole. Yukon Gold potatoes also work well.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the potatoes are fork-tender, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re unsure, test a potato slice to ensure it’s cooked through.

Can I add cheese to the casserole while baking?

Yes, adding cheese while baking ensures that it melts into the casserole. However, for a golden crust, it’s best to add the Parmesan cheese at the end of the baking time.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.

Can I use different broths or stocks?

Feel free to swap the beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer a different flavor or if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Conclusion

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a classic comfort food dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious. With layers of tender potatoes, savory beef, and melty cheese, this casserole makes the perfect weeknight meal for the whole family. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a household favorite!