Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

This comforting Hobo Casserole brings together tender potatoes savory ground beef and layers of melty cheese for a classic family dinner that tastes like home. A few simple ingredients and an easy oven bake create a meal that always warms the table and the heart

The first time I made this with my kids helping to layer on the cheese they were amazed at how simple and delicious homemade casseroles can be

Ingredients

• Ground beef: brings hearty protein and rich flavor I prefer leaner blends for less grease
• Olive oil: adds richness and helps brown the beef Look for a fresh bottle with a fruity aroma for best taste
• Medium onion and garlic: create a savory base always choose firm onions and tight garlic clove bulbs for freshness
• Potatoes: form the casserole’s foundation Use Russet or Yukon Gold for sturdier slices and creamier texture with thin even cuts
• Shredded cheddar cheese: supplies creamy melt and sharpness Buy a block and shred it yourself for better texture
• Grated Parmesan cheese: deepens the flavor and crisps on top Freshly grated is best
• Dried Italian seasoning: offers herbal notes A blend with oregano basil and thyme is classic
• Paprika: supplies a mild smoky warmth Use sweet or smoked based on your taste
• Salt and pepper: keep flavors balanced using kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper makes a difference
• Beef broth or water: adds moisture Try a low-sodium broth for more control over saltiness
• Milk: offers extra creaminess This is optional but a splash makes everything silkier
• Fresh parsley: brightens the finished dish Choose flat-leaf for best flavor Chop just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with a thin film of olive oil This prevents sticking later and sets you up for simple cleanup

Brown the Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks Spend about seven minutes letting it get a deep caramelized crust before draining any extra fat This step adds a robust foundation of flavor

Sauté the Aromatics:

After browning add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef Continue on medium heat stirring frequently for about four minutes Onion should turn soft and translucent while garlic releases its aroma Avoid browning the garlic to keep it sweet rather than bitter

Arrange the Potatoes and Season:

Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish Top it with a layer of thinly sliced potatoes overlapping them slightly Scatter them in rows for even baking Sprinkle on salt pepper dried Italian seasoning and paprika covering all the potato edges

Add Cheese and Liquid:

Scatter shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the top Pour the beef broth or water around the sides of the casserole to keep potatoes tender A drizzle of milk brings extra richness

Cover and Bake:

Seal the dish snugly with foil Bake for thirty minutes so the potatoes begin to soften Uncover and return to the oven for fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese bubbles and the potato slices fork-tender

Garnish and Serve:

Pull the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a couple minutes Scatter fresh chopped parsley over the top This final touch gives a pop of color and fresh flavor Serve warm from the dish

Pin

I always look forward to adding fresh parsley at the end It wakes up the whole casserole and takes me back to Sunday suppers at my grandma’s where a little green on top made every meal more special Sharing this with my kids keeps that memory alive around our own table

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before covering the dish and transferring to the fridge This casserole keeps for up to four days and reheats beautifully in the oven at low heat For longer storage cut into portions wrap well and freeze up to three months

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want a leaner casserole Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or add a handful of mozzarella for extra creaminess Sweet potatoes bring a different flavor if you want a twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or with steamed green beans Fresh bread on the side turns it into a true comfort meal For brunch slice and serve beside eggs

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Cultural and Historical Context

Hobo casseroles have roots in Depression-era home cooking making use of minimal simple ingredients to fill and nourish Popular throughout the Midwest they evolved from foil packet meals cooked over campfires to this beloved family oven bake

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of potatoes work best?

Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for even cooking and tender texture.

→ Can I swap the cheese varieties?

Yes, feel free to substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or your favorite melting cheese blends.

→ Do I have to use beef broth?

No, water works fine, but broth adds extra depth and richness to the final dish.

→ How can I make this creamier?

Drizzle in a bit of milk or half-and-half before baking for a richer, creamier result.

→ Can it be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to a day in advance and bake when ready for a convenient meal option.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables?

Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be layered in for added color and nutrition.