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Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones, and this Hobo Casserole is proof. Loaded with comforting ingredients like seasoned ground beef, tender sliced potatoes, and melty cheese, this oven-baked dish is a budget-friendly classic that’s easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers both taste and convenience.

The beauty of Hobo Casserole lies in its no-fuss, layered approach — just cook the beef with some onions and garlic, layer it with potatoes, top with cheese and seasoning, then bake until golden and bubbling. It’s everything you love about a meat-and-potatoes dinner wrapped into one cozy, cheesy bake.

Perfect for busy households, this recipe also offers flexibility. You can prep it ahead, tweak it with what you have on hand, and count on leftovers that reheat beautifully. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, Hobo Casserole is a reliable go-to when you need something warm, filling, and truly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Dish Wonder – Everything cooks in one casserole dish for easy prep and cleanup.
Comfort Food Classic – Combines hearty beef, potatoes, and cheese in every bite.
Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, inexpensive ingredients you likely already have.
Customizable – Easy to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the cheese.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day and reheats well.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Potatoes (thinly sliced)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Dried Italian seasoning
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Beef broth or water
Milk (optional, for creaminess)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Add Vegetables

Include sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or frozen peas for more nutrition.

Switch the Protein

Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.

Make It Spicy

Add crushed red pepper, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Try Different Cheeses

Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a twist on flavor.

Creamy Upgrade

Add a layer of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for extra richness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

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

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat.

Step 3

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Step 4

Layer the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.

Step 5

Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes over the beef in a single or overlapping layer. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

Step 6

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan evenly over the potatoes.

Step 7

Pour beef broth or water around the edges of the dish to moisten. Optionally drizzle with milk for added creaminess.

Step 8

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden.

Step 9

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Slice Potatoes Evenly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform slices that cook evenly.
Drain the Beef: Remove excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
Cover While Baking: Keeps the potatoes moist and prevents the cheese from burning.
Add Liquid Around the Edges: Helps steam the potatoes during baking.
Finish Uncovered: Allows the cheese to get golden and bubbly on top.

How to Serve

Serve Hobo Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It’s a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. Garnish with parsley for a fresh, colorful finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the casserole cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Wrap the entire (cooled) casserole dish in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Alternatively, portion into airtight containers before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use raw potatoes?

Yes, thinly sliced raw potatoes work well. Just make sure they’re sliced evenly so they cook through.

3. What kind of beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85% or 90%) works best to avoid excess grease.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with lentils, beans, or plant-based meat alternatives.

5. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?

Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly since the potatoes are already tender.

6. Do I have to use both cheeses?

No, you can use just one or swap in your favorite cheese blend.

7. How do I know when it’s done?

The potatoes should be fork-tender and the cheese golden and bubbling.

8. Can I add a creamy sauce?

Yes, add a can of cream soup (like mushroom or chicken) or a homemade béchamel.

9. What if I don’t have beef broth?

Water works fine; you can also use chicken or vegetable broth.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger dish or two 9×13 pans, and adjust cooking time if needed.

Conclusion

This Easy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is the definition of comfort food — hearty, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. With simple ingredients and a no-stress method, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving a warm, satisfying meal. Whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, this dish proves that humble ingredients can create something truly delicious. Try it once, and it’ll earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation.