Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This one-dish meal combines ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and seasonings to create a flavor-packed casserole that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
The appeal of Hobo Casserole lies in its simplicity and deliciousness. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s a fantastic way to combine protein and veggies into one meal, making it an efficient choice for both time and nutrition. Plus, this casserole is highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.
How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened, roughly 3-4 minutes.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika to taste.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses over the potatoes, and pour the beef broth around the edges of the dish.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Pro Tips for Success Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
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Brown the Meat Well: Ensure the ground beef is well-browned for a deeper flavor. Don’t rush this step; caramelization adds richness.
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Slice Potatoes Evenly: Cutting the potatoes into even slices helps them cook uniformly, ensuring a perfectly tender texture.
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Try Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a unique twist on flavor.
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Add Veggies: Consider adding frozen peas or corn for added nutrition and a splash of color.
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Control the Symmetry: Layer the potatoes neatly for a beautiful presentation.
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Adjust Cooking Time: Ovens vary; check for tenderness after the initial cooking time, and be prepared to adjust based on your oven’s quirks.
Flavor Variations Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy version that adds excitement to each bite.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added depth and aromatic flavor.
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Meat Choices: Substitute ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version without sacrificing the taste.
Serving Suggestions Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Hobo Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can certainly enhance your dining experience. Pair it with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve it alongside crusty garlic bread how delicious that sounds!
Consider offering a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top as a garnish. These little touches can elevate your casserole from homey comfort food to a delightful meal for guests.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
If you have leftovers, they can be easily stored in the fridge. Just place the casserole in an airtight container and enjoy it within 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before cooking, assemble the dish as instructed, cover it tightly with foil, then wrap it with plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after cooking, ensure it’s cooled completely before wrapping and freezing.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|—————|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 21g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
FAQ About Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, other options like ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great and can make this dish lighter. Just ensure that the cooking process adjusts to the type of meat you choose.
Is Hobo Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Hobo Casserole is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, portion it out, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat as needed, and your meal is ready to go!
How can I make this casserole lighter?
To lighten up this dish, use lean ground beef or substitute it with ground turkey. You can also cut back on cheese or use low-fat options to reduce the overall calories while still keeping that delicious flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole a day ahead by following the assembly directions without baking it. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook it the next day. This can develop flavors even more!
What should I do if the potatoes aren’t tender after baking?
If the potatoes aren’t tender after the suggested baking time, simply cover the dish with foil and return it to the oven, checking in 5-minute increments. Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of potato slices and the oven’s performance.
Final Thoughts
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is more than just a meal; it represents comfort, nostalgia, and family gatherings. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, not just for the food but for the laughter and stories shared. The ease of preparation, combined with its delightful flavors, makes it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and watch how it becomes a new favorite in your household!
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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and comforting one-dish meal combining ground beef, potatoes, cheese, and seasonings, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened for roughly 3-4 minutes.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika to taste.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses over the potatoes, and pour the beef broth around the edges of the dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Notes
Enhance your casserole with a green salad or garlic bread. Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle fresh parsley on top for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
