Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?

Yes. Frozen hash browns or frozen sliced potatoes can be used as a convenient shortcut, but drain them thoroughly before layering as they release extra moisture during baking that can make the casserole watery.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or frozen peas are all excellent additions that add nutrition, color, and flavor to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole without cheese?

Yes. Omit the cheese for a lighter version, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative for a lactose-free option.

How do I know when the casserole is fully done?

The casserole is done when the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork, the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the beef broth has been absorbed into the layers. If the cheese is browning too quickly before the potatoes are tender, cover with foil and continue baking until done.

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Cheesy Hearty and Easy

Name: The Best Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Hearty Cheesy and Family Approved
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion chopped; 2 cloves garlic minced; 4 to 5 medium potatoes thinly sliced; 1 and 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/2 cup beef broth or water; 1/4 cup whole milk optional for creaminess; Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Description

A hearty and comforting hobo casserole with seasoned ground beef, thinly sliced potatoes, and a golden melted cheddar and Parmesan topping. Simple, affordable, and the whole family will love it!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion chopped

2 cloves garlic minced

4 to 5 medium potatoes thinly sliced

1 and 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup beef broth or water

1/4 cup whole milk optional for creaminess

Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cook ground beef in olive oil over medium heat until browned. Drain fat. Add onion and garlic and cook 3 to 4 minutes until softened.

3. Spread beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

4. Layer thinly sliced potatoes over the beef. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.

5. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan over the potatoes. Pour beef broth around the edges. Drizzle milk over top if using.

6. Cover tightly with foil and bake 30 minutes.

7. Remove foil and bake 15 to 20 minutes more until potatoes are tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.

8. Rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Slice potatoes thinly and evenly for guaranteed even cooking.

Always drain excess fat from the beef before layering.

Cover for the first 30 minutes then uncover for the golden cheese topping.

Let rest 5 minutes before serving for the cleanest portions.

Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape better than russet.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dinner, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: hobo casserole ground beef, ground beef casserole, cheesy potato ground beef bake, easy ground beef dinner, one pan ground beef casserole