Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese that creates a comforting dish for any occasion. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is not only simple to prepare but also remarkably satisfying. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a standout meal that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty Comfort Food: With filling ingredients like ground beef and potatoes, it’s sure to satisfy your hunger.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or cheeses to suit your family’s preferences.
- Leftover Friendly: This casserole reheats well, ensuring delicious leftovers for lunch the next day.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet allows for easy browning of the ground beef without sticking or burning.
- Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving of your casserole.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing onions and potatoes quick and safe.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your recipe.
Ingredients
This Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is delicious with tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese all baked together into a comforting dish. It’s a simple, hearty meal that the whole family will love!
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
Seasoning and Liquids
- 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 creaminess)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet:
Heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook it for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet:
Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 4: Layer Potatoes
In your prepared baking dish:
Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly on the bottom.
Layer thinly sliced potatoes on top, seasoning them with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Step 5: Add Cheese & Liquid
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef:
Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep potatoes moist while baking. Optionally drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil:
Bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil.
Continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired:
Serve hot from the oven to enjoy this hearty meal!
How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
This flavorful Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Serve with a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a creamy contrast to the casserole.
Pair with Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Toasty garlic bread complements the cheesy flavors of the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for soaking up any sauce from the casserole.
Add a Vegetable Side
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring color and sweetness to the plate.
Top it Off
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and tang.
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for extra flavor.
How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
To make your Hobo Casserole Ground Beef even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh potatoes and vegetables enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Layer wisely: Alternate layers of meat, cheese, and potatoes for a more balanced bite.
- Season properly: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they elevate the taste significantly.
- Experiment with cheeses: Try mixing different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Pairing side dishes with your hearty Hobo Casserole Ground Beef can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the casserole.
- Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans complement the savory flavors beautifully.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is a sweet addition that pairs well with beef.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting experience alongside your casserole.
- Fried Zucchini: Crispy fried zucchini provides an enjoyable crunch and flavor balance.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds health benefits and pairs nicely with rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hobo Casserole Ground Beef, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your ground beef and potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Always season each layer for a tasty result.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: If you pack too many ingredients into the dish, it may not cook evenly. Ensure there’s enough space for proper baking.
- Using raw potatoes: Layering raw potatoes can result in undercooked vegetables. Pre-cook or slice them thinly for even cooking.
- Not covering during baking: Failing to cover your casserole at the beginning may cause it to dry out. Use aluminum foil initially to retain moisture.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking might cause it to fall apart. Let it rest for a few minutes for better slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing it in a container.
Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
- Label your container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through (about 25-30 minutes).
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Hobo Casserole Ground Beef that might help you out.
Can I use different types of meat in Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I customize my Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses.
What side dishes pair well with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Consider serving a fresh salad or steamed vegetables alongside this casserole for a balanced meal.
Is Hobo Casserole Ground Beef kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The combination of flavors and textures makes it appealing to kids and adults alike.
Final Thoughts
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy dinner with your loved ones!
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
Description
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a heartwarming dish that brings together layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is not only perfect for busy weeknights but also guarantees satisfaction for the entire family. With its comforting blend of flavors and textures, this meal is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personalized twist. Serve it hot and watch as everyone digs in!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 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 with olive oil until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions and garlic; cook until soft.
- Layer the cooked beef mixture in the baking dish, followed by sliced potatoes seasoned with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Sprinkle cheeses over the top and pour beef broth around the edges.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes; then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately one-sixth of casserole (approximately 290g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
