Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. This hearty casserole, featuring tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melted cheese, is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Its simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for busy cooks, while its rich flavors ensure everyone will enjoy every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps, making it an ideal choice for busy families.
- Savory and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and cheese delivers a rich and filling meal that pleases any palate.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Hobo casserole keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that kids love, making it an excellent option for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef. Here’s what you need to get started:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mandoline slicer (optional)
- Cooking spray or brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly and sautéing onions and garlic to enhance flavor.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Provides ample space for layering ingredients, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Mandoline slicer: Helps achieve uniform potato slices for consistent cooking; this is particularly helpful if you’re aiming for perfectly tender potatoes.
Ingredients
This comforting casserole features a blend of simple ingredients that come together beautifully:
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)
How to Make Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
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), breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for another 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish:
1. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly.
2. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top; season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes.
4. Pour beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep everything moist. Optionally drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
Step 4: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil; bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious Hobo Casserole Ground Beef!
How to Serve Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve directly from the dish: This makes it easy for everyone to help themselves and creates a casual dining atmosphere.
With a Salad
- Pair with a green salad: A fresh salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the casserole. Consider using romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Add Bread
- Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole and soaking up any juices.
Top It Off
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding chopped parsley or chives on top can brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
How to Perfect Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
To ensure your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Bold browning: Make sure to brown the ground beef well for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Bold seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate the dish significantly.
- Bold layering: Layer your potatoes evenly for uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Bold moisture: Pouring beef broth around the edges prevents the potatoes from drying out during baking.
- Bold cheese mix: Combine different cheeses for added flavor complexity; mozzarella or gouda work well.
- Bold resting time: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, making serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
Complement your Hobo Casserole with tasty side dishes. These options will round out your meal perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower adds color and nutrition.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit and perfect for soaking up casserole juices.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side brings a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is an excellent addition that pairs well with ground beef dishes.
- Mashed Potatoes: For potato lovers, creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent experience.
- Baked Beans: Their sweetness complements the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides freshness and balances richness.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad offers a refreshing end to your meal and cleanses the palate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Not browning the beef well: Properly browning the ground beef adds flavor and prevents a greasy casserole. Make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s browned before draining any excess fat.
- Ignoring potato thickness: Cutting potatoes unevenly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices to ensure even tenderness throughout the dish.
- Skipping seasonings: Seasoning is key in enhancing flavors. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning when layering the potatoes for maximum taste.
- Forgetting to cover while baking: Covering your casserole initially retains moisture and helps cook the potatoes evenly. Use aluminum foil for the first half of baking to prevent dryness.
- Overloading on cheese: While cheese adds great flavor, too much can make the dish overly greasy or heavy. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hobo Casserole Ground Beef in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Allow it to cool before sealing for best results.
Freezing Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is a hearty dish made with layers of seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and cheese. It’s a comforting meal perfect for families.
Can I customize my Hobo Casserole Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, swap cheeses, or use different seasonings according to your taste preferences.
How do I know when my Hobo Casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. A fork should easily pierce through the potatoes.
Can I make Hobo Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
Final Thoughts
The Hobo Casserole Ground Beef offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that will delight your family at dinner time. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hobo Casserole Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This delightful dish layers seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, creating a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table. It’s an easy-to-make casserole that not only delivers rich flavors but also allows for customization with your favorite vegetables and spices. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for leftovers! Gather your loved ones and enjoy this savory delight that warms both the heart and the home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Beef broth or water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
- In the baking dish, layer the beef mixture followed by sliced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese; pour beef broth around the edges.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approx. 320g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
