Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

Creating meals that satisfy both the appetite and the heart often brings back fond memories. Hobo casserole with ground beef is one of those delightful dishes. It’s not just about cooking; it’s about the aromas wafting through the kitchen and the satisfaction of bringing loved ones together for a hearty meal.

I remember the first time I experimented with this recipe. It was a chilly evening, and the thought of a warm, comforting casserole waiting in the oven made my heart smile. The layers of seasoned ground beef and tender potatoes paired with gooey cheese create a dish that not only warms you up but also feeds the soul. There’s something incredibly comforting about digging into a bubbling casserole, especially after a long day.

The simplicity of hobo casserole lies in its ingredients, but the flavors tell a story of warmth, love, and family gatherings. Each layer adds depth, creating a dish that feels both humble and special. It’s a meal that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family dinners.

Join the culinary adventure of crafting this hobo casserole. With a handful of straightforward ingredients, you can create a beloved comfort food that becomes a staple in your home.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef Basics

Fundamentals

Hobo casserole with ground beef revolves around some key elements. The dish features layers of flavorful ground beef, fresh potatoes, and cheese, all baked together to create a beautiful medley. Each layer contributes its unique texture and flavor, creating a wholesome experience in every bite.

This casserole utilizes everyday ingredients, making it accessible to any home cook. It offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors, proving that hearty meals don’t have to be complicated. The magic truly happens as it bakes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Preparation/Setup

Setting up for hobo casserole is straightforward. First, gather your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A clean workspace makes the cooking process more enjoyable, so take a moment to prepare your kitchen.

Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray ensures that nothing sticks, making cleanup easier afterward. Preparing the skillet also requires some attention. Good browning of the ground beef is essential for flavor development. As you heat the olive oil, the aroma of cooking meat will fill your kitchen, creating the perfect foundation for the casserole.

Ingredients

For this hobo casserole with ground beef, you will need the following ingredients:

• 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)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role. The ground beef acts as the protein backbone, while the potatoes provide heartiness. The combination of cheeses creates a perfectly gooey topping, balancing out the flavors wonderfully.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
4. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the ground beef in the prepared baking dish. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the beef. Pour the beef broth around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist while baking. Optionally, drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.
6. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot!

Enjoying Hobo Casserole’s Richness

Technique

The technique behind this hobo casserole is simple yet effective. Properly browning the ground beef sets the stage for a flavorful base. Cooking the onions and garlic until they’re soft adds another layer of flavor before introducing the potatoes. Layering the ingredients thoughtfully is crucial for even cooking and optimal flavor throughout the casserole.

When layering, ensure the potatoes cover the beef completely. This will promote moisture retention, helping the potatoes cook through rather than dry out. Letting the casserole cook covered initially allows steam to develop, ensuring tender potatoes while preventing the cheese from burning too soon.

Tips and Tricks

For perfect results, follow some handy tips. Consider selecting potatoes that hold their shape well during baking, like Yukon Gold or Russets. Also, if you want an extra kick, add some chopped bell peppers or carrots for more color and flavor.

If you enjoy a crispy top, remove the foil during the last part of baking, allowing the cheese to turn golden brown. This addition enhances both the presentation and texture of the updated dish.

Enhancing Your Hobo Casserole

Perfecting Results

To achieve the ultimate hobo casserole with ground beef, pay attention to cooking times and temperatures. Under-cooking the potatoes may leave them crunchy, while overcooking could lead to mushiness. Ideally, they should be tender yet firm.

Adjusting the thickness of your potato slices can impact cooking time as well. Thinner slices will cook faster, while thicker slices might require more time. Aim for a consistent thickness of about 1/4 inch for even cooking.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your casserole comes out too dry, this could mean a lack of liquid in the baking process. Make sure to adequately pour the broth around the edges. If excess liquid develops, it could lead to a soupy consistency. Use a slotted spoon when serving to maintain the ideal texture.

Variations are simple and fun with hobo casserole. Experiment by swapping out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Adding different vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms can also elevate the dish, bringing new flavors to the table.

Serving and Storing Hobo Casserole

Serving and Presentation

Presenting your hobo casserole can elevate the dining experience. Serve it in the baking dish for a casual, homey feel. For a touch of brightness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This small garnishing tip adds a pop of color and freshness.

Encourage family and friends to scoop their portions directly from the casserole dish for a communal feel. It invites everyone to dig in and enjoy.

Pairings and Storage

Hobo casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. For those who prefer heartier accompaniments, fresh bread or rolls work wonderfully to soak up the flavorful cheese and juices.

When it comes to storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can keep the casserole in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating in the oven restores the crispiness that might disappear in the microwave.

This hobo casserole with ground beef is a delightful way to bring family and friends together. Its rich layers and hearty ingredients create an inviting experience that people will cherish. As you explore cooking this dish, remember: the true essence of good food lies not just in the ingredients, but in the love and care put into making it. Enjoy this culinary journey and the warmth it brings to your table.

Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A hearty and comforting casserole made with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft.
4. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top of the ground beef in the prepared dish. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
5. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the beef layer. Pour the beef broth around the edges to keep the potatoes moist. Optionally, drizzle with milk.
6. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden.
7. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, choose potatoes that hold their shape well and consider using a slotted spoon to serve if excess liquid develops.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, ground beef, potatoes, family meal