Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy parents and anyone looking for a hearty meal that doesn’t break the bank. With its layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey cheese, this dish will warm your heart and fill your stomach. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and simple ingredients.

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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 Recipe
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 5: Add Cheese Toppings
• Step 6: Add Moisture
• Step 7: Bake Covered
• Step 8: Bake Uncovered
• Step 9: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Pair with Fresh Salad
• Add Some Bread
• Include Toppings
• Serve with Vegetables
• How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is a Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe?
• Can I customize my Hobo Casserole?
• How long does it take to cook Hobo Casserole?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Hobo Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This casserole can be ready in just over an hour, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients like ground beef and potatoes keeps costs low without sacrificing flavor.
• Family Favorite: With cheesy goodness and hearty filling, everyone will want seconds!
• Versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mandoline slicer (optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows you to brown the ground beef evenly, enhancing its flavor.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures the casserole cooks uniformly without overflowing.
• Mandoline slicer: If you want perfectly even potato slices, this tool saves time and effort.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup beef broth (or water)
• ¼ cup milk (optional, for added creaminess)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet:
1. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
2. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish:
1. Layer thinly sliced potatoes over the beef in a slightly overlapping manner.
2. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 5: Add Cheese Toppings

Sprinkle both shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the potato layer.

Step 6: Add Moisture

Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the dish:
– Optionally drizzle milk over potatoes for extra creaminess.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil:
– Bake for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Bake Uncovered

Remove foil from dish:
– Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden brown.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired:
– Serve hot and enjoy this delicious Hobo Casserole!

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is not only comforting but also flexible enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a simple weeknight meal, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the cheesy layers of the casserole perfectly.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds an aromatic touch and is perfect for scooping up any remaining casserole.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for mopping up the delicious juices from the dish.

Include Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang to each serving.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a burst of flavor and color to the plate.

Serve with Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add a delightful contrast in flavors.

How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

To make your Hobo Casserole truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying every time.

• Bold Browning Technique: Fully brown the ground beef to enhance its flavor and reduce excess grease in the casserole.
• Consistent Potato Slices: Slice potatoes evenly for uniform cooking. A mandoline makes this task easier.
• Creamy Upgrade Option: For added richness, use milk or a splash of heavy cream to elevate the texture of your casserole.
• Layering Matters: Proper layering helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the dish, creating a more balanced taste.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve.
• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to adjust seasonings based on personal preference; adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can create new flavor profiles.

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Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

When planning your meal around Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with it. They will round out your dinner and please everyone at the table.

1. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the casserole.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob makes for an easy, seasonal side that’s always a hit.
3. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans complement the beefiness of the casserole while adding sweetness.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer an additional comforting layer, especially if you love potatoes!
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus brings a touch of elegance along with vibrant color.
6. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad gives a refreshing contrast and is quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the right techniques can elevate your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Browning the Beef Properly: Failing to brown the ground beef well can result in a bland flavor. Make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned for the best taste.
• Uneven Potato Slices: Cutting potatoes unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season each layer, especially the potatoes, can make your casserole taste flat. Always season generously at every stage for rich flavors.
• Overcrowding the Dish: Packing too many ingredients into one dish can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not adhering to suggested baking times may result in undercooked potatoes or burnt cheese. Keep an eye on your casserole and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through evenly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe?

A Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is a layered dish made with ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, baked until golden and bubbly.

Can I customize my Hobo Casserole?

Yes! You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more nutrition and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses too!

How long does it take to cook Hobo Casserole?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving for convenience.

What should I serve with Hobo Casserole?

Hobo casserole pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Try it out and enjoy this comforting dish that everyone will love!

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