Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Featured in Delicious Main Course Recipes for Every Occasion.

Hobo Casserole is a budget-friendly comfort dish with a rich history dating back to the Great Depression when simple, filling meals made from affordable ingredients were essential. This version combines well-seasoned ground beef with layers of thinly sliced potatoes and a generous amount of cheese for a satisfying one-dish meal. What makes this casserole special is its rustic simplicity and hearty nature - the beef provides rich flavor and protein, while the potatoes become tender and slightly crisp on top during baking. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a deliciously savory crust, and the optional milk adds a touch of creaminess that brings everything together. With minimal prep and mostly hands-off cooking time, this casserole delivers maximum comfort with minimum effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when cooking on a budget.
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Updated on Tue, 25 Feb 2025 16:26:26 GMT
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Hobo Casserole transforms simple pantry staples into a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like a hug on a plate. This rustic dish combines savory ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and a blanket of melted cheese into a satisfying one-pan wonder that earns its place as a family favorite. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability – wholesome ingredients come together with minimal fuss to create maximum flavor.

During a recent neighborhood potluck, I brought this casserole expecting leftovers. To my surprise, the dish was scraped clean within minutes, with several people asking for the recipe while scraping up the last bits with pieces of bread.

Essential Elements

  • Ground beef: Creates the savory foundation of flavor
  • Potatoes: Slice thinly for proper cooking and texture
  • Two types of cheese: Offers depth and complexity
  • Aromatic seasonings: Italian herbs and paprika add dimension
  • Beef broth: Provides moisture and intensifies flavors
  • Proper layering: Ensures even cooking and flavor distribution
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Creating Perfect Casserole

Beef Preparation:
Brown thoroughly to develop rich flavor. Take time with onions and garlic to build aromatic base.
Potato Technique:
Slice uniformly thin for consistent cooking. Arrange in even layer for proper texture throughout.
Layering Strategy:
Build flavors thoughtfully, seasoning each component. Create balanced distribution of ingredients.
Baking Method:
Cover initially to steam potatoes properly. Uncover to achieve golden, crispy cheese topping.

My grandfather used to say the best meals come from simple ingredients prepared with care. This casserole embodies that philosophy perfectly.

Perfect Pairings

Create a complete meal by serving alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette. Steamed green vegetables like broccoli or beans provide fresh contrast, while warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor.

Creative Variations

Experiment with adding mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture. Try using sweet potatoes for natural sweetness, or incorporate taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese for a Mexican-inspired twist.

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Storage Success

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making this an excellent make-ahead option. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm gently in the oven.

After perfecting this recipe through countless family dinners, I've found that success lies in the details - the proper browning of the beef, the thickness of the potato slices, and the careful balance of seasonings. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that provides comforting leftovers, this Hobo Casserole delivers satisfaction in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Try adding a layer of sliced carrots, bell peppers, green beans, or corn. Frozen mixed vegetables work well too - just add them in with the beef and onion mixture.
→ What's the best way to slice the potatoes?
For even cooking, aim to slice the potatoes to about 1/8-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer works great for this purpose, but a sharp knife works fine too. Consistent thickness helps ensure the potatoes cook evenly.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate it covered. When ready to bake, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold from the refrigerator.
→ Why is it called Hobo Casserole?
The name comes from the Depression era when hobos (traveling workers) would make simple, hearty meals with inexpensive ingredients. These one-dish meals were often cooked in a single pot or over a campfire.
→ Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If freezing after baking, it will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot throughout.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

A simple, hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef with layers of potatoes and cheese for an easy, budget-friendly dinner.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
50 Minutes
Total Time
65 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 lb ground beef
02 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 1 medium onion, chopped
04 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

→ Cheese and Seasonings

06 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
07 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
09 1/2 teaspoon paprika
10 Salt and pepper to taste

→ Liquids and Garnish

11 1/2 cup beef broth or water
12 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)
13 Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 03

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 04

Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes on top, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 05

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef. Pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist while baking. Optionally, drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.

Step 06

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 07

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot!

Notes

  1. Brown the ground beef well and drain any excess fat for a leaner dish
  2. Slice the potatoes thinly for even cooking
  3. Adding milk creates a creamier texture
  4. Can substitute beef broth with water if needed

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Knife for slicing potatoes
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 515
  • Total Fat: 29 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 36 g
  • Protein: 31 g