Description
Hobo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese in a single dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this one-dish wonder is budget-friendly, easy to customize, and packed with nostalgic flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp 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 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)
- 1/4 cup milk (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned.
- Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Aromatics:
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- Thinly slice the potatoes using a knife or mandoline for even thickness.
- Layer the potato slices in the bottom of your prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them like shingles.
- Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning and paprika.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the layer of potatoes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef.
- Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist. For extra creaminess, drizzle with 1/4 cup of milk if desired.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Hobo Casserole!
Notes
- Evenly Sliced Potatoes: Use a mandoline for consistent potato slices to ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Seasoning: Add chili powder for a spicier kick or swap Italian seasoning with fresh rosemary or thyme.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with mozzarella, Colby-Jack, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Add Vegetables: Include diced carrots, peas, or green beans for a more balanced meal.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American