Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

A hearty and comforting dish, Hobo Casserole Ground Beef combines tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich melted cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The layers of flavor meld beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite 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
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
• Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 4: Bake
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• Beverage Pairings
• How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef vegetarian?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• How long does it take to bake Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
• What sides pair well with Hobo Casserole?
• Can I add more vegetables?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this casserole comes together in no time.
• Family-friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will love.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out vegetables or cheeses based on what you have at home.
• Comfort food classic: Hearty and filling, it’s the ultimate cozy meal for chilly nights.
• One-dish wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one baking dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish is key for even cooking and holding all the delicious layers.
• Mandoline slicer: Helps achieve uniform potato slices for consistent cooking if you want perfectly sliced potatoes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful casserole that serves four.

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 extra creaminess)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef and cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
1. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top.
2. Season them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
4. Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep potatoes moist. Optionally drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Bake

Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Then:
1. Remove the foil.
2. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving hot. Enjoy this comforting meal!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Serving Hobo Casserole with ground beef is an excellent way to create a comforting family meal. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tanginess, balancing the savory flavors.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the casserole.
• Green Salad: A light green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: A chilled glass of iced tea complements the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Red Wine: For adults, a glass of red wine enhances the hearty nature of the dish.

How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

To make your Hobo Casserole stand out, consider these helpful tips for perfection:

• Bold Browning: Ensure you brown the ground beef well for deeper flavor.
• Uniform Slices: Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking; using a mandoline can help.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it elevates the overall taste.
• Moisture Matters: Use beef broth or milk to keep potatoes tender and flavorful.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps set layers.

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Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Pairing side dishes with your Hobo Casserole enhances your meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture contrast and refreshing taste.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
4. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots complement the savory casserole beautifully; simply toss them in olive oil and roast until tender.
5. Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat alongside this hearty meal.
6. Mashed Potatoes: For potato lovers, serving mashed potatoes enhances comfort food vibes while offering different textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef well can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always ensure the beef is cooked until nicely browned.
• Uneven potato slices: Cutting potatoes unevenly can result in inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season each layer can lead to blandness. Season the beef, potatoes, and cheese layers for maximum flavor.
• Not covering while baking: Forgetting to cover the casserole initially may dry out the potatoes. Cover with foil for the first half of baking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt properly and can affect texture. Opt for good-quality cheddar and Parmesan for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-4 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef vegetarian?

You can substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. This will keep the texture hearty without meat.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile in your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef.

How long does it take to bake Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

The total baking time is about 45-50 minutes. This includes both covered and uncovered baking times.

What sides pair well with Hobo Casserole?

Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal alongside your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance nutrition and flavor in your casserole recipe.

Final Thoughts

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the cheeses. This dish is perfect for family dinners and sure to please everyone at the table!

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