Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare? This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the answer! With layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, this one-pan casserole is a family favorite that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hobo Casserole is a perfect combination of comfort and convenience. The ground beef adds a savory base, while the thinly sliced potatoes become wonderfully tender and absorb all the flavors. The gooey melted cheddar cheese and Parmesan on top add richness, making this dish irresistible. Plus, the casserole is customizable to your liking—add extra veggies, make it spicier with red pepper flakes, or even throw in more cheese for a creamier result.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Casserole:

1 lb ground beef
4-5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about ¼-inch thick)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup beef broth
¼ cup milk (optional)

For the Seasoning & Cheese:

1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to about ¼-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for a few minutes until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef and season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Grease a baking dish and layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Top with half of the cooked beef and sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheddar. Pour beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top to add moisture.

4. Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top. Continue baking uncovered for 10 more minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

Extra Creaminess: For a richer dish, add more cheese or a splash of heavy cream to the casserole.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist to the casserole.
Veggie Boost: Mix in veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a variation for a slightly sweeter, healthier twist.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a classic, satisfying dish that brings all the flavors you love into one easy-to-make casserole. With tender potatoes, savory beef, and melted cheese, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and great for leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite!