Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese in one delightful dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this casserole stands out with its hearty flavors and simple preparation. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or a potluck, it’s sure to become a favorite among your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just over an hour, making it ideal for those busy evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: You only need one baking dish, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward!
- Family-Friendly: With familiar ingredients like potatoes and beef, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or swapping cheeses.
- Comforting Taste: The combination of melted cheese and seasoned beef creates a warm and satisfying experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for ensuring even cooking of the casserole.
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables without crowding.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping ingredients efficiently and safely.
Ingredients
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is delicious with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese all baked together into a comforting dish. It’s a simple, hearty meal that the whole family will love!
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 creaminess)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef:
Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef:
Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Step 4: Layer Potatoes
Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the ground beef in the prepared baking dish:
1. Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish.
2. Arrange the potatoes on top.
3. Season them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Broth
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef:
– Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep potatoes moist while baking.
– Optionally drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil:
– Bake for 30 minutes.
– Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired:
Serve hot! Enjoy your delicious Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!
How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal and impress your family or guests.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a homey, casual vibe.
- Let everyone help themselves to seconds!
With a Side Salad
- A refreshing side salad can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Consider using mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor.
- This also adds a pop of color to your plate!
Accompanied by Bread
- Serve warm bread or rolls on the side to soak up any savory juices.
- Garlic bread pairs wonderfully for an extra flavor boost.
With Pickles or Relish
- Adding pickles or relish can introduce a tangy element that complements the dish.
- This is especially great if you enjoy bold flavors.
How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
To ensure your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality ground beef will enhance the overall taste.
- Layer Evenly: Proper layering helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the casserole.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your personal preference. More garlic? Go for it!
- Check Potato Tenderness: Ensure potatoes are fork-tender before removing from the oven to achieve the best texture.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking before serving. This helps it set up nicely.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends like mozzarella or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Pairing side dishes with your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: This classic side adds warmth and flavor, perfect for soaking up cheesy goodness.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and healthy option that provides great color and nutrients alongside the rich casserole.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing out the heaviness of the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful contrast and is easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
- Roasted Carrots: These add natural sweetness and are simple to roast in the oven while your casserole bakes.
- Baked Beans: A hearty side that complements beef beautifully; opt for homemade or canned variations for convenience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the browning step. Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always cook until it’s browned and crumbly.
- Neglecting to season the layers. Forgetting to season each layer, especially the potatoes, may result in blandness. Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Overcrowding the baking dish. Packing too much into your casserole dish can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
- Not covering the dish while baking. Leaving it uncovered for the entire bake time can dry out the potatoes. Use foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture.
- Ignoring doneness checks. Failing to check if the potatoes are tender may result in undercooked layers. Test them with a fork before removing from the oven.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hobo Casserole Ground Beef in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- For longer storage, freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container.
- The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and reheat for about 20-30 minutes until hot.
- Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.
Can I use other meats in Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while keeping similar flavors.
How do I make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef vegetarian?
Replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
What sides pair well with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
You can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.
Can I prepare Hobo Casserole Ground Beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve!
Final Thoughts
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. You can add your favorite vegetables or switch up the cheeses for different flavors. Give this comforting recipe a try; your family will love it!
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese into a delightful dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this one-pan wonder is simple to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. Customize it with your favorite veggies or cheese for a personal touch, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Sauté onion and garlic with the beef until soft (3-4 minutes).
- Layer sliced potatoes over the beef in the baking dish; season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Sprinkle cheeses on top and pour broth around the edges.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
