Dinner

Hobo Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

ByLila Prescott February 11, 2026February 11, 2026

Introduction

Hobo Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Combining savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and melted cheese, it’s an easy one-pan meal that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.

The dish shows a thick layer of cooked ground beef spread at the bottom of a white plate, topped with a layer of sliced yellow potatoes arranged evenly, followed by a generous layer of melted golden-brown cheese covering the entire surface with some browned spots giving a crispy look. Fresh green parsley sprinkles are scattered on top, adding a touch of color, all set on a white marbled texture surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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, for creaminess)

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 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.

Step 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.
Step 4: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on top, then season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Pour the beef broth (or water) around the edges of the casserole to keep the potatoes moist. Optionally, drizzle with milk for extra creaminess.

Step 6: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 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.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture and quicker cooking time.

Add a layer of sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes with the seasonings.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

The dish is a layered casserole served on a white plate on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a bed of cooked minced meat, dark brown in color and crumbly in texture, covering the entire plate. On top of the meat is a layer of sliced yellow potatoes with smooth edges, arranged close together. The uppermost layer is a thick, melted golden cheese that bubbles and browns slightly in spots, covering the potatoes unevenly. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top for garnish. A fork is placed at the back of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh potatoes are best for this recipe to ensure even cooking and texture. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the casserole’s consistency.