Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is a simple and tasty dish that everyone will love. With layers of ground beef, sliced potatoes, and melty cheese, this casserole is comfort food at its best. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without too much fuss. This dish takes just one baking pan, making cleanup easy. You can whip it up with ingredients you likely have at home, and it cooks in the oven while you relax. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that leaves everyone satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole

This Hobo Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, offering both flavor and ease. The beef is flavorful and juicy, while the potatoes become tender and comforting. The melty cheese on top adds rich goodness to every bite. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. It is also a great way to use leftovers and make a filling meal for the family. It looks great when served hot from the oven, and it’s sure to be a dish that everyone asks for again and again.

How to Make Hobo Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground beef – 1 lb
Potatoes – 4-5 medium, thinly sliced
Cheddar cheese – 1 1/2 cups, shredded
Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated
Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
Paprika – 1/2 tsp
Salt & pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Onion – 1 medium, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Beef broth – 1/2 cup
Milk (optional) – 1/4 cup
Fresh parsley – for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Thinly slice the potatoes to about 1/4 inch. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Then, add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the potatoes. Spread half of the cooked beef over the potatoes and sprinkle with half the cheddar cheese.
Repeat layers with the remaining potatoes and beef, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Pour beef broth (and milk if using) over the dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden brown.
Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

How to Serve Hobo Casserole

Hobo Casserole is best served warm. You can add a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies for balance. It’s delicious on its own but pairs nicely with bread or rolls for soaking up the flavors.

How to Store Hobo Casserole

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warm.

Tips for the Best Hobo Casserole

Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly for even cooking. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add in vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor. Let the casserole rest before serving to help the layers set.

Recipe Variations

You can replace ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor. Adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn can enhance the dish’s nutrition and taste. Feel free to change the cheese – mozzarella or pepper jack work well too.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it the next day.

Can I freeze Hobo Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Hobo Casserole?
You can serve it with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread to complete your meal. Enjoy!