Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Published:

by Emilia

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dining table. This dish combines layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, creating a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to whip up an easy yet delicious dinner.

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly.
  • Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even cozy family meals.
  • Flavorful Layers: The combination of ground beef, spices, and cheese offers a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.
  • Comforting and Filling: This dish is not only satisfying but also warms you up on chilly days.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness while adults appreciate the hearty components.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mandoline slicer (optional)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil
  • Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef evenly, ensuring great flavor throughout.
  • Baking dish: A spacious dish allows for layering ingredients properly and even cooking.
  • Mandoline slicer: Provides uniform potato slices that cook consistently, enhancing the overall texture of the casserole.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef:

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)
  • 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). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. This will prevent sticking and allow easy serving later.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer everything:
1. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish.
2. Layer thinly sliced potatoes on top.
3. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over all layers.
5. Pour beef broth or water around the edges of the casserole to keep potatoes moist. Optionally drizzle with milk for creaminess.

Step 4: Bake

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

Step 5: Serve

Once baked to perfection:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your comforting Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo casserole with ground beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its hearty nature makes it suitable for different occasions, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Casual Family Dinner

  • Serve with Salad: A light green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
  • Pair with Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the cheesy goodness and is perfect for scooping up leftovers.
  • Top with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang, enhancing the flavors.

Potluck or Gathering

  • Cut into Squares: Slice the casserole into squares for easy serving at potlucks.
  • Include Condiments: Offer toppings like hot sauce or chopped green onions for guests to customize their servings.
  • Accompany with Drinks: Serve with refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade to keep things casual.

Leftover Ideas

  • Reheat and Enjoy: Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.
  • Casserole Wraps: Use leftover hobo casserole as a filling for wraps or tacos, adding your favorite sauces.
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How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Making hobo casserole with ground beef requires a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

  • Boldly season your beef: Adding salt and spices while cooking ground beef enhances the flavor profile.
  • Even potato slices are key: Use a mandoline slicer for uniformity; this ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
  • Cover while baking: Keeping the casserole covered helps retain moisture, making potatoes tender and delicious.
  • Incorporate veggies for nutrition: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to increase nutritional value and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Complementing your hobo casserole with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

  1. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic add crunch and freshness.
  2. Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side provides a nice contrast to the warm casserole.
  3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with the savory flavors of hobo casserole.
  4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a delightful bitterness that balances richness.
  5. Baked Apples: A sweet treat that can serve as a light dessert after a hearty main course.
  6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are an excellent way to keep the potato theme going while adding crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef. Here are some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

  • Boldly layer: Not layering the ingredients properly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you spread the beef mixture and potatoes in even layers for consistent texture.
  • Boldly season: Skipping the seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always season each layer adequately, especially the potatoes, for a delicious dish.
  • Boldly cover: Forgetting to cover the casserole initially can dry it out. Use aluminum foil during the first part of baking to maintain moisture.
  • Boldly check doneness: Relying solely on time without checking can lead to undercooked potatoes. Test with a fork for tenderness before serving.
  • Boldly store leftovers: Using improper containers can spoil your leftovers. Store in airtight containers for best freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover Hobo Casserole Ground Beef in an airtight container.
  • It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

  • Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
  • Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
  • It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef that might help you out.

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for different flavors.

How do I customize my Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

What sides go well with Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely with this hearty casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a comforting and versatile dish perfect for any family meal. Its easy preparation allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table. Try experimenting with different vegetables or cheeses to make it your own!

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Hobo Casserole Ground Beef

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef


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  • Author: Emilia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the epitome of comfort food, combining layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese into one delightful dish. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and easy to make. With its delicious flavor profile and straightforward preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 45 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup beef broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef, cooking until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until soft (3-4 minutes).
  4. Layer the beef mixture in the baking dish followed by sliced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Top with cheeses.
  5. Pour broth around the edges; cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approximately 250g)
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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