If there’s a dinner that brings back all the cozy, comforting vibes of home, it’s definitely this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. Melted cheese, hearty beef, and tender potatoes all snuggle together under a golden, bubbling top, creating a classic casserole that tastes like pure nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a meal that sticks to your ribs, every bite is loaded with flavor, making it impossible to resist reaching for seconds. The best part? It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough that everyone at the table will be asking for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish lies in its humble, fuss-free ingredients—each one bringing its own magic to the Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. From the earthiness of potatoes to the melty cheddar top, every component helps create that perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Ground beef: The star protein, browned for maximum flavor and heartiness.
Potatoes (4-5 medium, thinly sliced): These form the backbone of the casserole, turning creamy and tender as they bake.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the onions and garlic develop flavor in the skillet.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Lends sweetness and depth with every bite.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a pop of savory aroma and punchy flavor.
Beef broth (½ cup): Keeps everything moist and infuses the layers with meaty goodness.
Milk (¼ cup, optional): Slightly enriches the sauce so it’s extra creamy.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Provides a warm, herbaceous note that ties it all together.
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds gentle heat and a subtle smoky color that shines in the casserole.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing all the flavors—don’t be shy with them.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups): For golden, gooey richness and classic casserole appeal.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Sprinkled on top for a salty, crisp finish.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens and freshens up every warm, cheesy serving.

How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are. While it heats, grab your potatoes and slice them thin—about a quarter-inch is perfect. Crisp, evenly cut slices are the secret to a casserole where every bite is beautifully cooked and tender. Don’t skip this little bit of prep; it makes a world of difference!

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then toss in those chopped onions and minced garlic. This duo fills your kitchen with the most tempting aroma! After a couple of minutes, crumble in the ground beef. Let it brown nicely—you want those flavorful little bits. Sprinkling in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper now will lock in tons of flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease your baking dish to avoid any sticking. Begin with a layer of sliced potatoes, then spoon on half of the savory beef mixture. Sprinkle a generous handful of cheddar cheese to start things off deliciously. Repeat those layers so you’ve got twice the love, finishing with beef and cheese. Pour the beef broth (plus milk, if you’re using it) evenly over the top—this will keep everything luscious as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish snugly with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. This steamy environment softens the potatoes and melds the flavors. Remove the foil, scatter on the Parmesan, and return the uncovered casserole to the oven for about 10 more minutes. You’re looking for bubbling edges and a golden, cheesy crown!

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Give your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes a brief five-minute breather—this helps everything set just enough for perfect slices. Top with plenty of fresh parsley for a bright, vibrant finish, then dive in and savor every warm, cheesy forkful!

How to Serve Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes

Garnishes

A simple shower of fresh chopped parsley is classic, but don’t stop there if you’re feeling fancy—chives or scallions give an oniony bite and a bit of color. A twist of cracked pepper or a dusting of extra Parmesan is always welcome for a touch more flavor and flair.

Side Dishes

While this Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is hearty on its own, a crisp green salad or tangy pickles on the side add lovely freshness. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots are wonderful for a pop of color, and a warm roll is perfect for mopping up every cheesy, saucy bit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual family meal, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves. If you want to impress, slice it into neat squares and stack on a platter, garnished with herbs. Try baking in individual ramekins for a dinner party twist—everyone gets their own adorable mini-casserole of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Caught with leftovers? Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for 3 to 4 days. Make sure everything has cooled to room temperature before sealing, which helps maintain the casserole’s fantastic texture.

Freezing

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully! Once baked and cooled, wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or transfer to a lidded freezer-safe container. The Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes keeps in the freezer for up to 2 months, ready for busy nights or unexpected cravings.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly (about 20 to 25 minutes if thawed). Microwaving individual portions works in a pinch—cover loosely with a damp paper towel to keep the potatoes tender and the cheese gooey.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are both delicious in this casserole, and even ground pork works nicely. If you’d like a vegetarian twist, try a plant-based ground meat alternative for all the comfort without the meat.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

You’re in charge here—if you love a rustic touch, leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. For a more classic, softer result, peeling the potatoes is perfect. Just be consistent throughout so every slice cooks the same.

Is it possible to assemble Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble all the layers up to a day in advance, cover the dish, and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.

What types of potatoes work best?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape best and won’t get mushy. Russet potatoes work as well, but they’ll become a little softer and more melt-in-your-mouth—choose whichever suits your taste and texture preference.

How can I make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes more flavorful?

Amp up the flavor by sautéing mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions and garlic, or try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat. Different cheese blends—like mozzarella or pepper jack—give it a whole new character, too!

Final Thoughts

Bring the family together and fill your home with the mouthwatering aroma of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes—you won’t regret it! With its irresistible layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and bubbling cheese, this dish never disappoints. Give it a try and watch it become an instant comfort food favorite at your table.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 27 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: None

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Description

This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese come together to create a delicious casserole that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to ¼-inch thickness.
Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes. Spread half of the cooked beef on top. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers, then pour beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top.
Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove foil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden brown.
Serve & Enjoy: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy dish!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American