Description

This Hobo Casserole is the ultimate cozy family dinner—simple, hearty, and loaded with flavor. Layers of tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and melty cheese come together in a golden, bubbling bake that’s pure comfort food nostalgia. Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday suppers, this easy casserole uses everyday pantry ingredients to create a meal that feels like a warm hug from home.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

1 lb ground beef
4–5 medium potatoes, thinly sliced (about 1.5 lb)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup beef broth
¼ cup milk (optional)

For Seasoning & Cheese:

1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat & prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium casserole dish with butter or oil. Slice potatoes evenly into ¼-inch rounds.
Cook the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assemble: Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the baking dish. Spread half the beef mixture over top, then sprinkle with half the cheddar cheese. Repeat with remaining potatoes, beef, and cheese.
Add liquid: Pour beef broth (and milk if using) evenly over the layers.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, until potatoes are tender. Remove foil, sprinkle Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Rest & serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use a mandoline for perfectly even potato slices.

Add green beans, corn, or peas for a veggie-packed twist.

Lean beef keeps it lighter; fattier beef adds richness—choose your style.

To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate; bake when ready, adding 10 minutes to the cooking time.

For extra gooey goodness, layer extra cheddar between potatoes and beef.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American