Hobo Casserole Ground Beef
A warm and hearty casserole featuring layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and rich cheeses, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef The star protein source for this dish.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil Adds depth and richness to the beef.
- 1 medium Onion, chopped Enhances flavor with its sweet aroma.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the casserole with a savory touch.
- 4 medium Potatoes, sliced Provide heartiness and satisfaction.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Gives a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese An additional layer of cheesy goodness.
- 1 tbsp Dried Italian Seasoning Adds an aromatic herbal blend.
- 1 tsp Paprika Introduces a mild smokiness.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Perfect for balancing flavors.
- 1 cup Beef Broth or Water For added moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup Milk, optional For creaminess, if desired.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, optional Brightens the dish as a garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as you cook, until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if needed, then season with dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cooking/Assembling
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Top with the remaining sliced potatoes, overlapping them slightly.
- Pour beef broth or water over the top, and drizzle milk if desired.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top layer.
Baking
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Check that the potatoes are tender by piercing with a fork.
- Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking.