When life gets busy (and when isn’t it?), I find myself reaching for recipes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Enter: Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes. This dish is all about layering simple, budget-friendly ingredients into something magical. Imagine savory ground beef, tender slices of potato, gooey cheese, and a sprinkle of seasoning—baked into bubbly perfection.
As a mom of three, I love meals that don’t require me to hover over the stove for an hour. With this casserole, I can toss everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and have enough time to help with homework or sneak in a few quiet sips of coffee (that’s still warm, if I’m lucky).
So, if your crew is craving comfort food that’s hearty and easy, this recipe has your back.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
- It’s budget-friendly—great for stretching that grocery bill.
- A true one-pan wonder: less mess, less stress.
- Hearty, cheesy, and perfect for picky eaters.
- Leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day.
What Does Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes Taste Like?
Think of it as a mash-up between scalloped potatoes and a cheeseburger casserole. The beef brings rich, savory depth. The potatoes bake up soft and tender, soaking in all those delicious juices. And the melted cheddar and Parmesan? That’s the golden crown on top. Every bite is warm, cheesy, and satisfying—like cozying up under a blanket on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
One of the reasons I adore making Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is how simple yet flavorful the ingredient list is. You don’t need anything fancy—just wholesome, everyday staples that come together in the most comforting way. Let’s break it down:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): The heart of this casserole. I usually go for 80/20 beef because the little bit of fat adds richness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works beautifully too (I’ve even used it in my Ground Turkey with Potatoes recipe).
- Potatoes (4–5 medium, thinly sliced): These are the cozy base of the dish. Thin slices (about ¼-inch thick) help them bake evenly and soak up all that savory broth and seasoning. Russet potatoes give you a classic fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape a bit more.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Just enough to sauté the onions and garlic and bring out their natural sweetness.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds that essential flavor foundation. White or yellow onions work best here—they caramelize slightly and melt right into the beef.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Because what’s a comfort casserole without a little garlicky goodness?
- Beef Broth (½ cup): This keeps the casserole moist and gives the potatoes extra flavor as they bake. You can swap in chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
- Milk (¼ cup, optional): For extra creaminess. If you love a rich casserole, a splash of milk or even heavy cream takes it to the next level.
Seasoning & Cheese
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A simple blend that ties everything together.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a hint of warmth and color.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste—this is where you build flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups): Melty, gooey, and perfect for that cheesy casserole vibe.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Sprinkled on top for a golden, slightly crispy finish.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.
These simple ingredients may look humble, but together they make a casserole that tastes like it simmered in Grandma’s kitchen all day—even though you can whip it up in under an hour.
How to Make Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
The beauty of Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is that it looks and tastes like you worked hard in the kitchen, but the steps are actually super simple. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide, and dinner will be bubbling away in no time.
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, wash and thinly slice your potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Don’t worry if they’re not all identical—just aim for even slices so they cook at the same pace. (A mandoline slicer works wonders here if you have one!)
💡 Jessica’s Tip: Leaving the potato skins on adds extra nutrients and a rustic feel. I love using Yukon Golds when I want that buttery, hearty bite.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, and let them sizzle until fragrant—about 2 minutes. Then, add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon.
Season generously with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no pink remains, about 6–7 minutes. This step builds the base flavor of the casserole, so don’t skimp on seasoning!
👉 If you enjoy bold flavors, you’ll love how this step reminds you of my Classic Chili Recipe, where layering spices into the beef makes all the difference.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a touch of olive oil or nonstick spray. Then comes the fun part—layering!
- Start with half the sliced potatoes, arranging them in an even layer.
- Spread half the cooked beef mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese. It should look like a lasagna’s cozy cousin at this point. Finally, pour the beef broth evenly over the top. For extra creaminess, drizzle in the optional milk too.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish with foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly across the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens—your kitchen will smell amazing, and the cheese will turn golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Rest, Garnish & Serve
Once it’s done baking, resist the temptation to dig in immediately (I know, it’s tough!). Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes so the layers can settle and hold together when served.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Then grab a big spoon, scoop out a hearty serving, and enjoy your warm, cheesy Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes.
💡 Family Trick: My kids love dipping warm garlic bread into the cheesy layers—it turns this into a full, satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
- Slice evenly: Thinner slices cook faster and more evenly.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if your family loves heat.
- Extra creamy: Swap in heavy cream for the milk if you want an indulgent, creamy texture.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole in the morning, refrigerate, then bake at dinnertime.
- No waste: Leftovers reheat beautifully—just cover with foil and warm in the oven.
Storage for Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap portions tightly in foil and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! It lightens the dish but still keeps it hearty.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Nope—leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A crisp green salad or simple roasted veggies make great sides.
Conclusion
There you have it—Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes, the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table. It’s cozy, cheesy, and perfect for those nights when you just need something simple but satisfying.
If your family loved this casserole, you might also enjoy my Classic Beef Chili or Ground Turkey with Potatoes.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
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Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes – The Best Weeknight Meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hobo Casserole with Ground Beef & Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal! With layers of savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, this one-pan dish is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup milk (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thinly slice the potatoes to ¼-inch thickness.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
5. Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned.
6. Grease a baking dish and layer half of the potatoes.
7. Spread half of the cooked beef on top.
8. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese.
9. Repeat the layers, then pour beef broth (and milk, if using) over the top.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes.
11. Remove foil, top with Parmesan cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden brown.
12. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
For extra creaminess, add more cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
Thinly slice potatoes for even cooking.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes.
